MEMORIES FROM BRAZILIAN HELL
Black, Gay, Poor and Marginalized do an Inspiring Show on Overcoming Spectacular Odds
Most of us have never experienced anything like what Valdeck A. de Jesus did growing up. Falling into a cesspool, playing among garbage and avoiding snakes on his walk to school are just the tip of the iceberg.
Valdeck grew up with his parents and seven brothers and sisters in a medium-sized city in the Bahian region of Brazil. Marginalized due to class and race, they struggled throughout his childhood just to meet the basic needs of shelter, food and medical care. Yet they never gave up; they all went on to achieve their goals and make a mark on the world.
As an adult, Valdeck has emerged as a literary pioneer, writing openly about his experiences as a black, gay, working-class Brazilian. His hearty sense of humor and ability to maintain a positive attitude will inspire your audience. Ask him:
• If he views himself as a role model for poor, black and/or gay communities.
• To tell stories revealing what life in Brazil is really like.
• About his beautiful, inspiring poetry.
• His “Directions for Those Who Want to Be Winners.”
CREDENTIALS: Valdeck A. de Jesus is an award-winning poet whose work has been published in more than 200 anthologies and his own volume, Heartache Poems: A Brazilian Gay Man Coming Out from the Closet. Currently a Brazilian federal government employee, he recently won an award for his work for the greater good of the gay community. His autobiography, MEMORIES FROM BRAZILIAN HELL, tells the saga of his family’s struggle to survive and thrive against all odds.
AVAILABILITY: Nationwide by arrangement and via telephone
CONTACT: Valdeck A. de Jesus, valdeck2007@gmail.com
