Ernie and Brianna
| Date | ca. 1988 |
|---|---|
| Dimensions | Image (Top left): 6 9/16 x 9 5/8 in. (16.7 x 24.4 cm) Paper (Top left): 7 1/4 x 10 in. (18.4 x 25.4 cm) Image (Top right): 6 1/2 x 9 9/16 in. (16.5 x 24.3 cm) Paper (Top right): 7 1/4 x 10 in. (18.4 x 25.4 cm) Image (Center left): 6 1/2 x 9 9/16 in. (16.5 x 24.3 cm) Paper (Center left): 6 3/4 x 10 in. (17.1 x 25.4 cm) Image (Center right): 6 1/2 x 9 5/8 in. (16.5 x 24.4 cm) Paper (Center right): 6 3/4 x 10 in. (17.1 x 25.4 cm) Image (Bottom left): 6 9/16 x 9 5/8 in. (16.7 x 24.4 cm) Paper (Bottom left): 7 5/8 x 10 in. (19.4 x 25.4 cm) Image (Bottom right): 6 9/16 x 9 5/8 in. (16.7 x 24.4 cm) Paper (Bottom right): 7 7/8 x 10 in. (20 x 25.4 cm) Mount (with mat): 30 x 23 7/8 in. (76.2 x 60.6 cm) |
| Print medium | Photo-Gelatin silver |
Ernie and his little sister, Brianna, are the children of an abusive man and a battered woman. Ernie, age seven, saw his mother slapped, raped, and choked. His father hit him, too. After trying to kill their mom, who had a protection order, Ernie's dad was arrested and jailed for more than eighteen months.
Ernie began to act like his dad did with his mom. Except that Brianna was his target. He constantly tormented her. Brianna adored her big brother yet it got so she never knew when a hug would turn into a choke hold. The mother found an intensive counseling program for both children. Finally Ernie is showing a positive program for both children. Finally Ernie is showing a positive emotional turn-around as he learns non-violent ways to express his feelings.
Violence begins at home. At least 3 million children live in abusive households. Research shows that children as young as two will emulate adult behavior. The only way to make sure children do not experience negative consequences of violence (self-mutilation, sibling abuse, addictions, prostitution, suicide) is to focus on how best to love and protect them. Seek help. Stop the violence in your home.
Gift of the Gang Family Fund, 2003