Know an HRC Intern: Samantha Citron
Name: Samantha Citron
Hometown: Highland Park, IL (map)
School: University of Missouri
Major: Journalism
HRC Department: Communications & Marketing
Why intern at HRC?
I chose to intern at HRC because ever since I was young, I understood there was inequality in the world for reasons I could never understand. I grew up with a gay sibling and he taught me a lot about the fight for equality and the importance of LGBT rights. For me, HRC was a great place to start and a chance to combine my interests for LGBT equality as well as journalism.
What do you like most about working at HRC?
I’ve always known that HRC does amazing work for the LGBT community, but I have really enjoyed being a part of the inner-workings of a non-profit that affects thousands of lives.
What issue is most pressing for the queer community on your campus?
At Mizzou, I believe LGBT recognition is most important. Just getting the message out there so that more people can join in on the fight is crucial to making solid changes.
What other issues interest you besides LGBT equality?
LGBT equality is something I’ve always had the most interest in personally fighting for, but there are conflicts all over the world, as seen in places like Darfur, and those need the same amount of vigor and energy behind them.
What do you do when you’re not out being an activist?
First and foremost, I love to hang out with my friends and family. I used to have a blog, and as writing is one of my favorite things to do, I’ll most likely pick that up again after my internship.
What was the last song you downloaded?
This is embarrassing – Send it On by various Disney stars. Anyone that knows me also knows my undying love for the Disney Channel. Even after age 12.
What upcoming events are you most excited about?
DC has some awesome events coming in October like the National Equality March and HRC’s National Dinner, but I’m also pretty stoked to go to a Dave Matthews Band concert with my boyfriend this month.
Who would you like to have dinner with?
I’d most like to have dinner with Ellen DeGeneres, in part because she is a fierce activist, but mainly because she is hilarious.
What advice would you give to LGBT students?
As an ally, I’ve never had to personally deal with the issues that affect LGBT people, but I would just say keep fighting and stay strong – no matter what comes your way.