Benjaman Kyle / Miguel Endara

In 2004, Benjaman Kyle woke up outside of a Burger King in Georgia without any clothes, any ID, or any memories. Benjaman was diagnosed with Retrograde Amnesia, also known as the “Hollywood Amnesia”: where you wake up remembering nothing (Think the Bourne Identity, 50 First Dates, etc). Benjaman couldn’t remember who he was, and with no ID, couldn’t find out. The trouble was, authorities couldn’t identify him either. Local and state police tried their hardest, but Benjaman remained a mystery.

In 2007, the FBI became involved, but could not identify him: making him the only US citizen in History listed as missing despite his whereabouts being known. Benjaman can’t remember who he is, and not even the US government can tell him: leaving him without an identity, and without a social security number.

Without a social security number, Benjaman can’t get hired or even stay in a homeless shelter. In other words, there’s nothing he can do. He’s trapped in a loophole that nobody anticipated. Only legislation on the national level will allow Benjaman to work and have a place to stay.

Finding Benjaman, above at the header, was directed by John Wikstrom. It chronicles Benjaman Kyle’s story and struggle to discover his true identity. Inspired by the fascinating documentary short, artist Miguel Endara, whose previous drawing went viral, has created another ink pen-stippled drawing in honor of Kyle. This project is composed of about 2.1 million dots and measures 20″ x 15″. Endara has created a limited edition print and 50% of all proceeds made through the print will be dedicated to helping Benjaman Kyle receive a new SSN and get his life back on track.

–@teemunny

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