Janis Astor del Valle

Tell us a little about how you Live United by giving, advocating and volunteering in the community.: I am a Puerto Rican writer/performer/filmmaker who strongly believes in utilizing the arts to promote social change. When not serving as Executive Director of Youth Rights Media, I tour my solo plays to schools and colleges around the country to spark discourse about understanding and acceptance of the LGBTQ community. This is of utmost importance to me, given the recent tragedies of gay teen suicides and the horrific acts of violence and hatred perpetrated upon the LGBTQ community. I support the New Haven Pride Center, as well as the Hartford-based organizations, True Colors, CLARO and CT TransAdvocacy Coalition. I also teach Critical Writing for the International Festival of Arts & Ideas Fellowship Program.

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