Meet the Staff: Danny

Danny Mendoza

Let us welcome Danny to the DC Center. Danny will be working with the community and Coalition to create events that engage, support, and empower the local Latinx LGBTQ+ Community. They are excited to work here and hopes to continue to make the lives of LGBTQ people easier. You can meet Danny weeknights at the DC Center.

Birthdate, Astro Sign.
 August 7th 1996. I’m a Leo and we’re obviously the best!
Where are you originally from?
I was born in MD, but grew up in Charlottesville, VA. Yes, I’m from THAT Charlottesville.
Why did you start working at the DC Center?
I’ve been a group member and volunteering here for the past year and hearing about this position excited me so much that I decided to apply. Now here I am.
What has been your favorite part about working at the DC Center?
I’m still new, but I love meeting new people and then seeing them come back for the next meeting and getting to know them better.
What is your music anthem?
Oof, that’s tough. I’d say right now it’s Bordem by Tyler the Creator. I just can’t get enough of that song.
What is your favorite part about the LGBTQ+ community?
Wow, there’s so much I love about the community. If I have to pick just one, I’d say the diversity. I’m always grateful for how folks get along, especially coming from all walks of life and backgrounds.
 What is your favorite spot in DC and what do you do there?
I mainly spend most of my time at work or at events, but whenever I get the chance I like to go on a run around Meridian park or just lay on the grass and listen to the drum circle.
What is your favorite queer movie?
Not sure if this counts, but Mulan was such an awakening for me. It’s still relevant to how I feel about my gender identity and who doesn’t love Mushu?
 What color would you paint the White House, given the chance?
I feel like rainbow is the obvious choice, but given the current administration. I’d say a gaudy fuschia with a thick coat of glitter on top, but only on the inside.  

Who do you look up to in the queer community?

I know this isn’t original, but I admire Ruby Corado so much. Not only for her bravery and relentless desire to fight for the community, but also her immense about of compassion and self composure in the face of injustice.

Meet the Staff: Jose

Meet the new Health and Wellness intern, Jose. This autumn, Jose will be working with the health working group and take on various duties around and for the D.C Center. He has already spoken for the DC Center in front of the the D.C council on a bill, helped hosted events and volunteered at the Reel Affirmations film festival. He hopes to continue to make the lives of LGBTQ folks a little bit easier.

Birthdate, Astro Sign.

July 3rd, 1997. Cancer

Where are you originally from?

I was born and raised in New York City. By the time I was 18 I felt I needed a change in , pace. I decided to go to college in Plattsburgh, NY (30 mins from Canada) and the rest is history in the making.

Why did you start working at the DC Center?

I started working at the DC Center, because I felt the need to give back to my community. I was fortunate have supportive people in my life, and I want to be able to give support to those who need it.

What has been your favorite part about working at the DC Center?

It’s never a dull day at the Center. My coworkers keep things lively and are very supportive.

What is your music anthem?

Happier by Marshmello & Bastille

What is your favorite part about the LGBTQ+ community?

The ability of the LGBTQ community to progress forward. We have faced so much adversity in the past, yet we still create a positive and safe atmosphere with one another.

What is your favorite spot in DC and what do you do there?

The Lincoln Memorial, because at night it just gives a cool ambiance.

What is your favorite queer movie?

I am stuck between the films ‘Those People’ and ‘Love Simon’.

What color would you paint the White House, given the chance?

Hot Pink. It not only makes a bold statement, but how many buildings have you seen in Hot Pink?

Who do you look up to in the queer community?

Tituss Burgess