Don’t Worry

Most of the highland inhabitants of the Mexican state Guerrero belong to indigenous communities. They are among the poorest people in Mexico, and frequent victims of the violence used by drug cartels to exert power. In an effort to counteract this force, and appealing to the autonomy of indigenous peoples, the residents of Ayahualtempa have created a Policía Comunitaria, which has many children among its ranks. 

Firearms have become part of everyday life for 14-year-old Tavo and his friends. Any boundary between play and defense has been completely erased. They practice their shooting skills out in the field without any supervision; and the only time they lay down their guns is when they play basketball. In this region known for the illegal cultivation of opium poppy and marihuana, children watching over their community is an everyday reality.