P.S. ARTS’ Curriculum & Instruction Specialist, Donzell Lewis, is a highly acclaimed youth theater educator/director, actor, and comedian, known for his exceptional talent and dedication to the arts. Previous to becoming the Curriculum & Instruction Specialist, Donzell dedicated a decade of his career as a Theater Teaching Artist for P.S. ARTS, where he successfully implemented a comprehensive theater program for grades TK-5. His approach is guided by a commitment to radical inclusivity, acknowledging and respecting diverse cultural legacies, challenging euro-centric standards, and engaging in courageous conversations that drive social change.
Here is Donzell, writing about his involvement with the Human Rights Campaign and the annual HRC conference he recently attended in Washington D.C.
- Tell us about yourself and your role at P.S. ARTS.
I find it intriguing to share my story, as it encompasses both my professional journey and my passions as an artist and educator. In a nutshell, I am an artist and educator who believes profoundly in the transformative power individuals possess to change the world through their unique gifts, talents, and passions. My expertise lies in theater and education, and I have had the privilege of engaging in various forms of performing arts, from commercials and plays to drag shows and improv comedy. As an educator, I have imparted the joys of theater to countless students, directed youth theater, and fostered a deep appreciation for the arts within school communities. Currently, at P.S. ARTS, I contribute to the organization’s impact by designing curriculum, training educators, and supporting students through an administrative lens, enabling a broader perspective on the landscape of arts education.
- How and when did you get involved with the Human Rights Campaign?
My connection with The Human Rights Campaign (HRC), the world’s largest LGBTQIA advocacy organization, is rooted in my deep admiration for their unwavering commitment to equal rights. As an ARTIVIST (artist and activist), I actively involve myself in creating and promoting work that centers around social justice and equity. I decided to join HRC in 2018. This decision was driven by my desire to connect with activists from diverse backgrounds, to broaden my horizons and expand my perspective.
Being part of HRC has proven to be an incredibly rewarding experience. Witnessing the impact that HRC, along with its dedicated volunteers, including myself, has on individuals and communities reinforces our collective belief that equal rights are an essential and non-negotiable requirement for everyone.
- Tell us about your participation with this year’s annual conference.
This year’s HRC annual conference was truly inspiring. As a recent addition to their national board of governors, it was my first time attending, and I left Washington D.C. feeling educated, informed, and most importantly, inspired. The conference brought together leaders from across the country committed to LGBTQIA equality.
I participated in the national board meeting, attended workshops, and had the privilege of being present at the National Dinner. The event featured keynote speakers, including First Lady Dr. Jill Biden and President Joe Biden, both passionately advocating for LGBTQIA+ youth. Notable figures such as Shonda Rhimes, Lena Waithe, Matt Bomer, and HRC President Kelley Robinson also addressed the audience.
- What are some crossovers between HRC and our work at P.S. ARTS?
The most significant connection between HRC and my work at P.S. ARTS lies in our shared values of equity and justice. As an equity-focused educator, I am acutely aware of systemic injustices within our school systems and actively strive to create learning communities where every child receives the support they need. My approach, rooted in culturally responsive curricula, Universal Design for Learning, and social justice values, aims to amplify the voices of marginalized individuals. Through this lens of equity, I aspire to empower all students, especially those historically disadvantaged, to embrace their authentic voices and navigate the world with the tools to dismantle systems of oppression.
- What is one key takeaway from the conference as an arts education advocate?
The conference’s theme, “Without Exception,” resonated deeply with me. HRC’s commitment to ensuring that all LGBTQIA individuals gain their rights without exception mirrors my belief in providing every student with access to high-quality, radically inclusive, and anti-oppressive art education. It reinforced my dedication to fighting for true equality in arts education, rejecting any limited progress that might place restrictions on those who can benefit from it.
–Donzell Lewis, Curriculum & Instruction Specialist, P.S. ARTS
Thank you for sharing, Donzell! For more information on Human Rights Campaign, including resources on equality and inclusion, visit www.hrc.org.
