Russell Stiger

Russell Stiger is a photographer and photo editor for The Sacramento Observer, where he covers a range of topics, including urban living and sports.

Articles

Person standing on a pavement with two plastic bags besides them

Community Engagement

Reporting Strategies

Learning to ‘get closer’: Lessons from documenting homelessness in Sacramento

A photographer reflects on documenting homelessness in Sacramento, navigating trust and community collaboration to highlight Black residents’ housing struggles.

Poverty and Class

Race and Equity

Health Equity & Social Justice

Mental Health & Trauma

Seeds in the Soil Fight to Break Through

After Camp Resolution was cleared, Black Sacramentans like Satearah “Murphy,” Chop, and James describe loss, displacement and the need for support.

Poverty and Class

Race and Equity

Person distributing hygiene supplies to another person

Health Equity & Social Justice

Helping the Homeless in the Face of Federal Cuts

Black Sacramento residents face severe housing inequities — 35% of the homeless population but only 9% overall —amid rising rents and cuts to support programs.

Poverty and Class

Race and Equity

Health Equity & Social Justice

Sacramento’s Concrete Roses

The Observer offers a look through the eyes of advocates and community members working directly with Black homeless people and exploring how to provide solutions.

Housing and Homeslessness

Race and Equity