This photo can be interpreted in a multitude of ways. The book Practices of Looking: An Introduction describes interpretation in a couple of ways. First, the meaning of something is dependent on the individual looking. Their experiences and cultural expectations shape their reaction. This means that an images meaning can change as a culture changes. Because of this, an image can have an allure or meaning that is completely contradictory to what the creator had in mind. The interpretation of a work of art also depends on the knowledge and expectations the viewer has of the time period when the work was created. Using these two concepts we can begin to deconstruct the image at hand in accordance to my view (this is all I can do, because this is all I know). First as an American, I know of the great racial tension between whites and black during the 1960s. The reason I assume the photo was taken in the 1960s is because my prescription to the idea that black and white photos are artifacts of the past. This coupled with my understanding of dress and fashion trends leads me (in my mind, not necessarily fact) to assume and think this photo was taken in the 1960s. Because of these assumptions the photo gives radiates a great deal of power (to me and other who prescribe to my past knowledge and assumptions). The fact that an African American is holding a Caucasian child during a time of great upheaval is a display of hope. The extreme contrast between the white child and black woman (due to its black and white nature) echoes the separation of the races at this time. Remember though, the text highlights that these feelings are only inventions of my interpretation. Someone who has a different cultural expectation and understanding of the past may view the image in a completely different light. And they would be justified in doing so. A work of art and the reaction you give it is entirely dependent on your cultural view and understanding of the subject and its origin.
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