Why Didn’t the Photographer Help?
Fournier was criticized for not saving Omayra. Many asked why he photographed instead of helping. Fournier said the situation made it hard to rescue her. “There were debates about photojournalism; some called us vultures,” he said. “But I thought it was important to show the world what was happening.” Fournier claimed the image led to charity donations and showed the Colombian government’s failures.
The Value of Photojournalistic Coverage
Fournier defended his choice, saying his work aimed to tell the truth. He thought his photo raised awareness of the catastrophe and the government’s lack of response. The picture not only inspired global donations but also highlighted the nation’s leaders’ negligence.