Episode 16 features an interview with Andy Arias - actor, model, federal policy worker, civil rights advocate. Andy shares how his experiences growing up as a Hispanic LGBTQ boy with a disability in the California foster care system shaped his desire to serve others with love and compassion.
Episode 16 features an interview with Andy Arias - actor, model, federal policy worker, advocate, and civil rights activist.
Andy has been an advocacy and policy professional for over seven years, most recently at the national level on disability policy. In Washington, DC, Andy worked closely with Judith Heumann, pioneer of the Independent Living movement and the Americans with Disabilities Act.
As an adjunct faculty member at Georgetown University, member of many boards and commissions, and subject matter expert on diversity and inclusion, Andy works to ensure that people with disabilities are represented. Andy continues educate the public about people with disabilities and the intersectionality of race, gender, and sexual identity through his weekly live FaceBook shows: Wednesdays with Andy and Friday Funnies.
Andy advocates in the entertainment industry by creating visible pathways as an actor and stand-up comedian. As an actor, Andy has had the pleasure of working with Tom Hanks, Mark Ruffalo and Hilary Swank on projects. He is often asked to consult with producers and directors in creating greater media visibility of people with disabilities. He has also produced several small projects that have brought attention to persons with disabilities and the LGBTQ community.
Find Andy Arias: FB @ActorAdvocateAndy IG @AndysWheelz TheAndyArias.com
Contact Donna Valente: GivingHeartBeat@gmail.com
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