A Day in a Homeless Encampment

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A depiction of a Mayan temple by Javier Antonio Chab Dzul next to the homeless encampment at Shotwell and 19th streets. Photo by Alejandro Galicia Diaz/ El Tecolote

By Alejandro Galicia Diaz, El Tecolote
The homeless encampment at 19th and Shotwell streets isn’t like any other in San Francisco. Colorful art depicting hearts, a peace sign and a Mayan temple have transformed the cold concrete sidewalk into a happy and walking canvas. But beneath the art is the dreadful reality for Javier Antonio Chab Dzul and his buddies: These streets are the only home they have.

Despite that sad reality, Chab Dzul, who is self-taught, finds an oasis of peace and serenity in his art in the midst of his living conditions.

Read the complete story at El Tecolote.

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