Know an HRC Intern: Ryan Spagnolo
Name: Ryan Spagnolo
Hometown: Bryn Mawr, PA (map)
School: Cornell University
Major: History
HRC Department: Youth & Campus Outreach
Why intern at HRC?
As the largest non-profit devoted to LGBT rights in the United States, HRC has been a powerful force in advocating on behalf of the community for decades. Its trusted name and leadership has brought our issues to the attention of government officials and lawmakers and enabled key LGBT rights legislation to pass. I knew that an internship with HRC would put me at the forefront of the current debate on these issues and give me hands-on knowledge and effective advocacy experience to make a difference.
What do you like most about working at HRC?
I value the chance to help advance progress toward a more equal and just society in which everyone can be respected. As part of the Youth and Campus Outreach Program, I help empower students and equip them with the tools to carry the movement forward. This means a lot to me not only as a recent graduate, but also because the attitudes of the younger generations have shifted in favor of greater LGBT equality and it’s important to get them involved.
What issue is most pressing for the queer community on your campus?
Cornell has generally been very supportive of LGBT groups and resources. Within the student population, the Greek and the athletic communities could do more to bolster tolerance and inclusion within their circles. While many fraternities have become more openly accepting of gay brothers, it would still not be considered appropriate to bring a date of the same sex to any formal events. Sororities are still relatively uninviting toward lesbian sisters and the Greek culture overall is still very heteronormative. I think athletes also face some unspoken discrimination within their teams. The challenge lies in changing the personal opinions of members of those groups to become more inclusive, acknowledging and accepting of diversity.
What other issues interest you besides LGBT equality?
For me, international human rights, especially in post-conflict and post-genocide situations, humanitarian aid and the implementation of rule of law are fascinating topics. Also, international development with a focus on environmental sustainability and food security are passions of mine in fighting global poverty and hunger.
What do you do when you’re not out being an activist?
In terms of physical activities, I enjoy hiking, swimming and tennis. If traveling is considered an activity, I would say that is my favorite one of all. I’ve spent five months in France, two and half months in Belgium and also traveled throughout most of Europe. There are still so many places I would love to go to, especially Australia, South Africa and Brazil.
What was the last song you downloaded?
I downloaded the entire new Lady Gaga album, the Fame Monster, and “Need You Now” by the band Lady Antebellum. The two are obviously unrelated, but both good.
What upcoming events are you most excited about?
I’m really looking forward to HRC’s Lobby Day in March, where I will be able to see firsthand how the process of advocacy works on Capitol Hill. I imagine it will be a very memorable and rewarding experience.
Who would you like to have dinner with?
That is a loaded question. In terms of a famous LGBT person, I would have to say my ideal dinner date would be Matthew Mitcham, the gold medal Olympian for 10m dive at the 2008 Beijing Olympics. As a former swimmer myself, I admire him for his skill and drive as a professional diver. He’s also an incredible role model for LGBT professional athletes in terms of how he balances his career in the public spotlight with living an open and honest life.
What advice would you give to LGBT students?
To younger students in high school, or maybe even junior high school, I would say don’t let anyone bully you into not being yourself. I always found it hard to express myself as a student because I worried what other people would think and how they would react. Be proud of who you are and stand up for that right. Even if family, friends and teachers may not be supportive, you will always find someone empathetic (a counselor, a friend, etc.) who will want to help you. Do not give up hope in yourself, because you are beautiful inside and out. To college students, I would say be responsible with your actions and help reach out to younger kids trying to come to terms with who they are. Most importantly, learn to love yourself and others on that same principle: being proud of your own identity.