Dignity Has a Name is a photographic testimony by Art Moreno Jr., combining fine art photography with Christian meditations. The book documents the lives of residents and caregivers at Punto Zero, a sanctuary in Ciudad Juárez, Mexico, for approximately thirty-five individuals with intellectual disabilities. It is designed for readers interested in faith-based reflection, documentary photography,…
Dignity Has a Name is a photographic testimony by Art Moreno Jr., combining fine art photography with Christian meditations. The book documents the lives of residents and caregivers at Punto Zero, a sanctuary in Ciudad Juárez, Mexico, for approximately thirty-five individuals with intellectual disabilities. It is designed for readers interested in faith-based reflection, documentary photography, and stories of human dignity.
The opening sections establish the book's purpose: an invitation to look long enough for indifference to fail. The artist statement explains how Moreno's work at Punto Zero evolved from documentation into a responsibility, with residents as participants in a trust agreement. The dedication honors the author's father, Art Moreno Sr., friend Trini Garcia, and the Ayala family who run Punto Zero.
The text describes Punto Zero's founding by Beto and Lupe Ayala, who believed everyone exists just one point from mental vulnerability. The sanctuary operates without professional medical resources but provides safe beds, meals, and dignity. The caretakers section introduces Lupe, Héctor, and Laura, who carry out daily work including meals, medicine, cleaning, and fundraising.
Witness sections share specific encounters: a chapel along Highway #2 that serves as a threshold for visitors, the monthly hot dog ministry started by Art Moreno Sr. and Trini Garcia, and a conversation with resident Marilú who showed concern over a bandaged finger. Each witness is paired with Scripture, a meditation, a prayer, and a practice for readers to apply.