Look at Me, Raise Your Hand
Logan students take to the stage in Women’s Justice Institute series, “Look at Me.”
By Jeanine A. Elam
On October 23, 2024, the fourth annual performance of “Look at Me” was held at Logan Correctional Center. “Look at Me” is an online series started by individuals in custody in Logan, in collaboration with the Women’s Justice Institute, to raise awareness about domestic violence and its effects on mental and physical health and on our society. “Look at Me” grew out of a separate domestic violence program, “Never No More,” which was filmed and made available for viewing at all IDOC facilities, with the support of Illinois First Lady, M.K. Pritzker.
I interviewed several NPEP students who participated in the “Look at Me” series. Here’s what they had to say:
JE: Elbonie, This was your first year participating in the LAM series. What made you take part this year?
Elbonie Burnside: I was forced by my friends to step outside my comfort zone. Normally, I retreat to the background. This was an inspiring experience.
JE: Cindy, you read an original piece as well as performed in the “This is Me” dance/choir number. How did you feel performing two such totally different pieces?
Cindy Shepheard: Free.
JE: Vanecha, before LAM, you were the DJ for “Never No More” in 2019. What has moved you to come from behind the shadows starting with your 2023 duet “You Say” with fellow individual in custody Breanna Travis?
Vanecha Cooper: I have always been comfortable working behind the scenes, cheering people on and giving support. I decided to participate to build my confidence. I am not comfortable being in the spotlight, so I pushed myself out of the box of my comfort zone.
JE: Margaret, how did you prepare yourself to breathe such life into your trans piece, even though you are not transgender?
Margaret DeFrancisco: To be honest, I didn’t understand the piece, but I am always in support of community, so I went all out when it came to performing my piece and memorization. Anything I can do to contribute to unity, I will do.
JE: Joyce, you’ve been a part of LAM from the beginning. Why do you continue to participate?
Joyce McGee: I do it to support the individuals in custody who started this program—you, Stephanie, and Erika. I admire what you do, and I will always support y’all!
JE: Stephanie, you participated in “Never No More” in 2019 and have been an active member in the LAM collective since it began. Both productions were filmed. How did they differ?
Stephanie Bonds: “Never No More” was filmed in one sitting. LAM became more of a movie production. The professionalism of the program taught us how to direct and film a movie.
JE: LaTosha, this was your first year joining the LAM movement. May I ask why?
LaTosha Howard: I have been silenced my entire life and decided it was time to share my story publicly.
JE: Erika, you stepped into the director’s seat this year. What did you learn?
Erika Ray: I learned that boundaries are truly necessary. I also witnessed firsthand the beauty of creative expression as your work comes to life.
Through the online series “Look at Me,” incarcerated people such as Blanca Solis and Bonnie Shelesney are able to step out of their physical shells and support one another, standing in their truth, releasing their hurts, finding healing, and creating family in the process. We thank all the participants of “Look at Me 2024” and we will be ready for 2025.
Behind the Scenes at “Look at Me, Raise Your Hand”
