Abu Ykhiel to Guantanamo Bay and beyond: the paper trials of Omar Khadr 2002–2017. (4th July 2019)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Lewis, Chris
• Is Part Of: Social identities. Volume 25:Number 4(2019)
• Page Start: 476
• Page End: 495
• Publication Date: 2019-07-04
• Subjects: Omar Khadr -- Guantanamo -- photographs -- child; Group identity -- Periodicals; Ethnicity -- Periodicals; Culture -- Periodicals; Political sociology -- Periodicals; 302.15
• DOI: 10.1080/13504630.2018.1514155
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1350-4630

Abstract

ABSTRACT: This research article critically analyses the photographs and illustrations that have been used to support arguments about Omar Khadr. Khadr was a 15-year-old who was captured by the US in Afghanistan, transferred to Guantanamo Bay where he was charged with murder and submitted to US interrogation. Throughout this process both supporters and opponents of Khadr have used pictures to support their claims. By examining and discussing these images it is possible to detect biases and prejudices that attempt to sway and influence the reader to the particular ideology of the writers. The article studies in depth images both for, and against, Khadr. It shows the different, printing and illustrating techniques that add menace to existing photographs, or soften the image for a more peaceful approach. In particular, it subjects the image of Khadr's damaged body being assisted by soldiers to a critical analysis to reveal what it really shows.