Deserving

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“Until the lion writes his own story, the tale of the hunt will always glorify the hunter.” The Soy Autor writing process was developed in collaboration with young people at-risk of, victims of or perpetrators of violence in El Salvador. In 2017, this innovative program launched at Cook County Jail with young men awaiting trial for violent offenses. Through the process of drafting, revising, illustrating and publishing memoirs, the Authors’ Circle develops reflection, critical thinking, camaraderie, conflict resolution and positive self-projection.

In collaboration with:

Cook County Sheriff’s Office



Deserving Antwan Elliott






I graduated elementary school in June 2007, one of the best days of my life. I was happy, my sister was happy, and most of all, my mom was happy.

She bragged to everyone about that day. Seeing that made me hungrier to do more to keep that beauuful smile on her face.












Not my mom. Not my sister because she went away.



Nine years later my life connnued to go through turmoil. The pain is consistent and it feels like my heart is permanently broken. It wasn’t unnl I got here, my temporary home, made of brick and metal did I finally realize I had completely gave up and lost control of my life. WIthout the abuse of drugs, reality finally kicked in. My mom’s deceased, I have a son, and I’m now in jail for murder.


Instead of being a man and taking control of the situaaon, I blamed the world and used drugs to numb the pain. Being locked away gave me a lot of me to think and ďŹ nally make a decision to either connnue to struggle or change my life. I’ve decided to make my mom proud even though she is deceased because I know she’s ssll here with me in spirit.


Also to change my ways to be a real father to my beauuful son who calls me “Dad” and smiles every me he see’s me even though I wasn’t there when he arrived to this world. My son deserves the same happy home I had.

Even if we have to struggle to be happy, we’ll be happier together...




I am from Death Park, from old woodchucks and broken swings. I am from the roach infested rooms,

multiple crumbeaters could never kill them all.

I am from the strong herb, the marijuana plant

Whose buds relax the mind, body, & soul.

I’m from barbeques and sports, from Trinette Henderson and Kevin the deadbeat. I’m from the military and constant traveling, From “Yes ma’ams” and “Yes sirs.” I’m from the United House of Prayer, early morning bible studies. I’m from dirt roads, lonely streets, chicken, mac & cheese, ribs. From the being real smooth and willing to fist fight, The Alien family members and empty picture frames

where darkness and ghosts hang out.


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