"El Sueño Americano," Clifford McDonald’s striking photograph of a young boy whose eyes reflect the flags of both the United States and Mexico, won the "People's Choice Award" at Embracing Our Differences' 17th annual outdoor juried art exhibit celebrating diversity. McDonald, who is a Sarasota-based artist and educator, received a cash award of $1,000. McDonald will share his prize money with Elijah Garza, the subject of his photograph. Garza is a first-grade student at Visible Men Academy in Bradenton.

In his artist statement, McDonald says the image reflects the often precarious situation children of immigrant parents face. “People move to the United States from all over the world for many different reasons. This piece represents the opportunity that others see in the United States. Who wouldn’t want to live in a country that promises freedom, education, job opportunities, quality healthcare and an overall better life? But imagine coming to America as a child and being taken away from the hands of your mother. Or as a parent having your child ripped out of your arms. It’s sad to see how some immigrants have been treated for chasing the American Dream.” 

The 2021 exhibit will be January 20 through April 1, 2021, in Bayfront Park in downtown Sarasota