The Blind Leading the Blind

"The blind leading the blind" is a powerful metaphor that reflects a surprisingly common reality in everyday life, representing situations where individuals lacking competence lead others in a similar condition. A prominent example of the struggle for territorial independence is Brexit. On January 31, 2020, the United Kingdom formally left the European Union after negotiations that highlighted critical issues related to sovereignty, immigration, the economy, and regulation. This event marked the start of a transition period that ended on December 31, 2020, when the UK exited the EU single market and customs union, ushering in new uncertainties and opportunities. Immigration was a central theme of the Brexit debate. The free movement of people within the EU raised concerns about pressure on public services and the British labor market. Brexit supporters, particularly those from economically disadvantaged backgrounds, hoped for greater prosperity and more opportunities for low-skilled British workers. However, the promises to significantly reduce immigration did not yield the expected results, as businesses continued to seek cost-effective solutions abroad. The British automotive industry faced significant challenges, including a decline in domestic sales and rising import costs. Local car repair shops, already struggling due to Brexit, were further affected by the withdrawal from the EU's "Right to Repair" regulations, which restricted access to essential repair information and increased operational expenses. Railway arches, relics of the 19th century, have become hubs for diverse economic activities but have also undergone changes and adaptations over time. Brexit brought symbols and narratives of national identity to the forefront, reflecting a renewed sense of belonging and historical evolution. This post-Brexit photographic project provided an opportunity to assess the long-term effects on industries and communities, revealing socio-economic dynamics and how communities adapt to economic and political changes. Only through a retrospective lens can the full impact of Brexit be understood, illustrating how communities adjust to shifts and revealing dynamics often invisible at first glance.