Know an HRC Intern: Mark Doumet
Name: Mark Doumet
Hometown: Los Angeles, CA (map)
School: Georgetown University
Major: International Economics
HRC Department: Consumer Marketing
Why intern at HRC?
I’m interning at HRC to play my part and make a difference for LGBT equality. I really believe that social change starts with political change. And, as a gay American myself, I take lots of pride in knowing that I’m working for an organization fighting for my future.
What do you like most about working at HRC?
My favorite part about working at HRC is definitely the work environment. I have amazing co-workers and I think we do a fantastic job of bouncing ideas off of each other. I’ve had two internships before, one on Capitol Hill and the other for an international business, and never before have I felt more like I’m contributing to the overall process than working at HRC. I really feel like my ideas are well-received here, despite my age.
What issue is most pressing for the queer community on your campus?
My university is actually having a lot of troubles right now with the LGBT community and homophobia. As a Jesuit institution, Georgetown has to be aligned with Catholic doctrine and has to maintain the support of the Vatican. As a result, we often see the University and the administration try to appease both progressive students on campus and traditional Catholics. In the end, the administration usually decides that the preferred balance for both of these groups is not to take a position at all. I’ve personally found that this approach is counterproductive and really goes against the Jesuit ideals of having an open debate with an open mind.
What other issues interest you besides LGBT equality?
I consider myself to be a Libertarian, so I’m really into civil rights and privacy issues. In addition, I’m studying international economics, so I’m also into issues related to the political economy and trade relations.
What do you do when you’re not out being an activist?
I like to consider myself more of an advocate than an activist. When I’m not working at HRC or studying and being a student, my favorite things to do are to hang out with friends and meet new people. I like to consider myself a people person, so as long as I’m in a social setting, I’m great.
What was the last song you downloaded?
The last song I downloaded was You Somebody by Kings of Leon. It’s a great song and a classic group. I definitely recommend it.
What upcoming events are you most excited about?
I’m a big political guy, so more than any single event I’m looking forward to the reaction and response of a lot of conservative groups and the LGBT community to the outcome of Question 1 in Maine. Specifically, I’m curious to see how the results carry on to next year’s elections. I really think that the defeat of the No on One campaign in Maine is going to embolden a lot of conservative groups to launch the same campaigns that they’ve waged in California and Maine in New Hampshire and Vermont.
Who would you like to have dinner with?
I’m actually a huge Bobby Kennedy fan, so if I could have dinner with someone from anytime in history it would definitely be Bobby Kennedy. If I had to pick someone alive today, I’d actually pick HRC President Joe Solmonese. I definitely want to pick his brain about HRC and its role in backroom politics in the Democratic and Republican parties.
What advice would you give to LGBT students?
I don’t want this to sound like dating advice, but the best advice I can give LGBT students is to be confident in who they are and who they’re with. Whenever someone is intimidated or ashamed of their identity, it gives a lot more reason and affirmation for their critics to think they have something to be ashamed about. As an LGBT student, I can tell you that you have nothing to be ashamed about.