Hitting Home is a series that chronicles the impact of COVID-19 on five New Mexico towns: Shiprock, Gallup, Las Vegas, Carlsbad and Anthony. All are steeped in history, struggle, and now, perhaps, a battle for their lives. Over the course of a year, we’ll return to these towns again and again, producing multimedia portraits that capture these unprecedented times. Navajos, Hispanics, roustabouts, ranchers, business owners and immigrants are among the many people we’ll bring to life in stories, photos, videos and audio files, read aloud in Diné, Spanish and English. The project was made possible by the generosity of community residents, who welcomed us into their lives.

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Education in the rearview mirror

Living in internet dead zones and sometimes without electricity at home, Indigenous youths in New Mexico and Arizona went to extraordinary lengths to attend virtual classes.

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The wind cries money

With ample wind and sun, Carlsbad stands to be at the epicenter of renewable energy for the Southwest. But can the state diversify from oil and gas dependence before it’s too late?

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Seeking shelter

After suffering one of the worst COVID-19 outbreaks in the country, this New Mexico town on the edge of Navajo Nation is reaching a breaking point as the federal eviction moratorium is set to expire.

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Crossings to bear

For years, drought and poverty have taken a harsh toll on this border town’s agriculture and migrant workers. Then came the coronavirus.

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Hitting Home is made possible through the generous support of these foundations and individual donors like you.


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