Dark Tears, this book was made possible in part by a grant from the Arcus Fondation. The New Press, Ben Woodward, my Editor, your diligence and clear-sightedness have been invaluable. Jurek Wajdowicz, co-founder and Creative Director of Emerson Wajdowicz Studios. Jurek put his faith in my work and afforded me the opportunity to represent the LGBTQ Community. Lisa Rochelle, senior art director, all from the Team at EWS. My deepest thanks Go to my unconditional friend Jenny Papalexandris whose transcedent words and sensibility in the writing of the introduction have enhanced my images immensaly. 
Further more my deepest gratitude to my twenty-six subjects, to the people whose stories form the content of Dark Tears, I express my warm thanks. Without their openness, trust, and belief in this project, it could not have come about. Their understanding and generous support allowed me to persue my career as a photographer.

Claudia Jares