Queer, Disabled Afro-Latina Danielle Perez Uses Comedy to Embrace Identity | Storytellers

Danielle Perez an Afro-Latina Dominican comedian and actress from Los Angeles who has turned her personal hardship into an inspiring and powerful career in storytelling.

Growing up, she often felt like she didn’t fully belong in either the Latino or Black communities, struggling to find a space where she could embrace all parts of her identity. However, she discovered her voice through stand-up comedy, a stage where she could be unapologetically herself. Through humor, she shares her experiences as a queer, disabled Afro-Latina, through comedic flair as a way to speak to shared experiences.

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At the age of 20, Danielle’s life took an unexpected turn when she was struck by a light rail streetcar in San Francisco, resulting in the loss of her feet. The accident sent her into a deep depression, forcing her to navigate a new reality that felt overwhelming and isolating. But instead of letting grief consume her, she found her strength in comedy. The stage became her outlet, a space where she could reclaim her story on her own terms. Through her performances, Danielle not only finds healing but also inspires others to embrace their uniqueness and persevere in the face of adversity.

For Danielle, live performance is more than just entertainment—it’s an exchange of energy, a space where vulnerability meets empowerment. She believes in taking risks, challenging herself, and pushing past limitations, both personal and societal. Her humor is raw, honest, and deeply personal, touching on themes of identity, disability, and resilience. She refuses to be boxed in, instead choosing to define success on her own terms.

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A major source of her strength comes from her 97-year-old Nana, who was born and raised in the Dominican Republic. Her grandmother’s wisdom and resilience have shaped Danielle into the woman she is today, inspiring her to be bold, fearless, and authentic. Now, Danielle hopes to pass that inspiration forward, using her comedy and storytelling to uplift others and redefine what it means to take center stage. Through humor and heart, she continues to challenge perceptions and prove that laughter can be one of the most powerful tools for change.

Danielle, who was recently on the latest season of the Netflix hit show The Night Agent is currently using her platform and her talents to inspire the world through her story.