As the US confronted intensifying climate threats, widening inequality, and political and economic turmoil, the Guardian called on photojournalists across the country to document both the hardships and the resilience of their communities over the past year. The collection of top images published in 2025 offers a layered portrait of the nation, going beyond breaking news alerts to capture the truths and complex lives of individuals and groups.
Among the stories featured is that of Edith Langford, who survived being shot and nearly paralysed at age nine. Now 73, she is a therapist working on a memoir about trauma and thriving. In the Blackfeet Nation of Montana, community members are helping students explore traditional practices alongside modern science to achieve food sovereignty. Mahmoud Khalil, a Columbia University graduate and Palestinian organiser, reflects on exile after his release from ICE detention.
The collection also highlights the 'trad' movement, with families like Mike Thomas's believing modern society is broken and advocating a return to strict family order. Texas rancher and Republican lawmaker John Davis, a Trump supporter, is horrified by his party's attack on clean energy, having allowed wind turbines that benefit his poor community. LaToya Ratlief, shot with a rubber bullet during a 2020 protest, reached a settlement but emotional wounds linger.
In Nevada, the Tahoe-Reno Industrial Center hosts the largest datacenter in the US, with tech giants like Google and Microsoft building massive facilities, reflecting AI's growing demand for power and water. K'Sisay Sadiki, daughter of Black Panther parents, speaks of her father and freedom. Christine Valenciana recalls her mother's family being deported during the Great Depression, mirroring recent ICE raids in southern California. Mazyouna Damoo, 13, who lost part of her face in Gaza, receives treatment in Texas, a rare story of hope from the war.
