We are Rohingya, an ethnic community with deep historical, cultural, and…
We are Rohingya, an ethnic community with deep historical, cultural, and ancestral roots in Myanmar. These documents are more than pieces of paper; they represent our identity, our history, our lives, and our connection to the land where we belong. For generations, we used these documents in Myanmar for almost every aspect of our daily lives. They helped us identify ourselves, access education, find employment, conduct official activities, and prove ownership of our land and property. Our family records, land documents, photographs, and other important papers were part of our everyday lives and held memories of our homes, families, and communities. These documents remind us of the lives we built in Myanmar before we were forced to leave our homeland. Every paper carries a story of belonging, dignity and the rights we believe every human being deserves. They connect us to our ancestors, our villages and the places where our families lived. RM Mohammed
Photographed by RM Mohammed · Rohingya Photographic Society

Elderly man holding a household list, documents before him
FamilyHousehold listHousehold photo
Assorted letters, forms, household photos and receipts
OtherHousehold listHousehold photo
Household lists, family photographs and handwritten papers
OtherHousehold listHousehold photo
Death certificate (Part 1) and a cash memo slip
Family2010s2016
Household list, front side (badly damaged)
FamilyHousehold list
Two temporary travel permits (Form 4) for white-card holders, 2014
TravelWhite cardTravel permit2014
Household registration photograph, 2011
FamilyHousehold photo2010s2011
Land revenue receipt with Buthidaung Township stamp
LandLand revenue
Household lists and a handwritten letter
FamilyHousehold listLetter