#JustinFarmer

[upstandersnotbystanders-blog]

Justin Farmer has been a resident of Hamden, CT for 20 years and currently attends Southern Connecticut State University as a second year Political Science Major. He is very active in his Newhallville / New Haven communities and has spent the last several months campaigning for a spot on the upcoming  Hamden Legislative Council primary election ballot - of which he defeated the Democratic Town Committee’s endorsed candidate. Justin will be an official Hamden Legislative Council person this November representing Hamden’s 5th District.   

Justin was nominated as an Upstander by several people - I personally first met him at Southern Connecticut State University two years ago in the Women’s Studies office. Upon first meeting him, while you wonder why he wears noise canceling headphones, you get a feeling of warmth and attentive caring. It isn’t until he speaks about his interest in local politics and his own experiences being entangled in the political framework of the education system do you really get a sense of his compassion and interest in being a voice for those who typically do not have one. The headphones he wears are a tool he uses to help manage noise sensitivity issues due to Tourettes. 

I feel lucky to have been able to and continue to work closely with Justin throughout graduate school and through this project. His reach within the community was extremely evident as within the thirty minutes I spent photographing him on Audobon street in New Haven, he was approached by more than several people who informed him about issues they were facing or asked him about his political interests and then he was greeted by more than several acquaintances as they either walked or drove by. I personally endorse him as an Upstander and not a Bystander. 

Connect with him through his “FarmerforFifth” facebook campaign group that is still actively being used: https://www.facebook.com/groups/1304106523020871/ Contact Justin Farmer:  Justin.Farmer28@gmail.com 203-200-0517

These images will hang as part of the “Upstanders, Not Bystanders” portrait project in the New Haven City Wide Open Studios event on October 14th & 15th, 2017. Please considering helping support with printing and installation costs using the gofundme link below:

https://www.gofundme.com/upstanders