Sunday morning, Margie demonstrates the love and affection she has for her son, Pierre. Olive Branch Mission, Chicago. 1999

Donna Ferrato captured this black and white photograph of Margie and her son, Pierre, at the Olive Branch Mission in Chicago. The image shows an intimate scene of motherly affection within the stark reality of a homeless shelter. Ferrato, known for her unflinching documentation of domestic violence and social issues, offers a counter-narrative to the often dehumanizing representations of poverty. Here, the focus is on the tenderness between a mother and her child amidst hardship. The photograph quietly speaks volumes about race, class, and resilience. Margie's embrace and Pierre's laughter become an act of resistance against the despair of their circumstances. It's a powerful reminder that even in the most challenging environments, love and connection persist.