Gordon Parks dubs the camera his "weapon against all the things [he] dislikes." In his book The Learning Tree, Parks talks about how he chose the camera as his protection against the drugs, alcohol and violence that he was exposed to as a kid. This defense turned into a career and, as a photojournalist, he uses his camera to tell stories. He was the first black photographer at LIFE magazine, a magazine known for its vivid images and quality photos.

American Gothic, by Gordon Parks, 1942

In 1961, Parks was given an assignment to capture on film the extreme poverty of Rio de Janeiro, a city better known for its extreme riches. Parks chose one person, a young boy named Flavio, to convey his point about the large difference between Rio's rich and poor citizens. Readers were so touched by Parks' photos and Flavio's story that they raised enough money to buy a home for his family and educate him and his siblings. Parks consistently turned racism and poverty into inspiring messages and art. His work not only informed people, but also inspired them to take action against the hardships and unfairness he faced as a kid.