Southwest Detroit is bound and crossed with industrial borders and corridors including several major freeways, the Ambassador Bridge connecting the US and Canada, and the Detroit Intermodal Freight Terminal. Excessive truck traffic has been a constant in the community for generations. (2017)

"I moved to Southwest Detroit... I wanted very much to come to Southwest. I didn't think about the bridge, the highway... the asthma, the lead". Raquel Garcia talks about losing a pet due to environmental factors and thinks aloud about what that means for our children. (2017)

"The issues are invisible until you suffer from them. We know that idling is bad… on the other hand we know it's bringing work. The fact that we are a hub brings a lot of benefits to the neighborhood, and also a number of risks." says Raquel Garcia, a community resident. (2017)

Semi truck owner operator Juan Rodriguez takes his truck in for repairs before picking up a load that will take him out on the road. (2017)

Longer runs earn more money for owner operators. But it takes a toll on family life. Juan Rodriguez recently sold his more valuable (and lucrative) sleeper to buy a day cab for shorter runs so that he can spend more time with his young and growing family. (2017)

Over the years semi-truck owner operators in Southwest Detroit have created a network of support and cooperation between them that offers mentoring, resources, and community often rooted in the traditions and culture of the community. (2017)

One expression of this community is the annual Misa de Traileros held at Ste Anne's Catholic Church in Southwest Detroit. (2017)

Fernando stands with friends and family in front of his truck at the annual Misa de Traileros (#BlessingOfTheSemis) at Ste Anne's in Southwest Detroit. (2017)

Jesus stands with his family in front of his truck after the annual Misa de Traileros (#BlessingOfTheSemis) he helps to organize. Inside his truck he shares about how the Misa de Traileros came about. (2017)

Jesus' family outside their home as he gets ready to go on the road. (2017)

“It’s hard being the wife of a truck driver.” Gabriela prepares a meal as she waits for Juan to return home. “He’s been out since about 6:00am. He kissed the baby goodbye in the morning and he left... I’m making one of his favorites. Home made shrimp quesadillas and avocado salad.” (2017)

“You feel more comfortable knowing he’ll be home soon. Knowing that a drive isn’t so dangerous. And that he can come home to a home cooked meal and see our baby." (2017)