Know an HRC Intern: Emma Shalaway
Name: Emma Shalaway
Hometown: Cameron, WV (map)
School: Cornell University
Major: American Studies and Feminist & Gender Studies
HRC Department: Events
Why intern at HRC?
HRC is a great organization with successful results, and I just wanted to be a part of that team.
What do you like most about working at HRC?
The people I work with and the progressive thinking. It’s a really liberating environment.
What has been your favorite project at HRC?
The National Dinner because it was a great event and it was just as much fun to put together and collaborate with the other teams beforehand to get ready for President Obama, Lady Gaga, and the Glee cast. My personal favorite part was getting to order the piano for Lady Gaga before anyone knew she was going to perform.
What issue is most pressing for the queer community on your campus?
In my opinion, it would be varsity sports. There are a lot of coaches, I can’t speak for all of them obviously, but I do know of some who discriminate and outlaw queer relationships for players that they coach. That’s a big problem that needs to be addressed.
What other issues interest you besides LGBT equality?
Women’s rights, especially reproductive issues and equality, not only in the United States but internationally as well. Being from West Virginia, environmental issues are really important to me because there is a lot of coal and strip mining going on.
What do you do when you’re not out being an activist?
I love going to concerts and any kind of music shows. I watch tons and tons of films. I want to make films when I’m older, so I watch a lot of films. And I love art. I make art. I go see art shows. I love exploring places, places that I thought I knew and new places. I like meeting new people.
What was the last song you downloaded?
“Small Town Boy” by Bronski Beat. It’s like campy, 80’s techno. It’s great.
What upcoming events are you most excited about?
I’m going to London this March, so I’m pretty excited about that.
Who would you like to have dinner with?
I would skip the dinner part, and I would actually like to spend the whole 24 hours with Andy Warhol in his factory, and then I would like to make a film with him.
What advice would you give to LGBT students?
Be true to yourself and treasure those who support you.