Know an HRC Intern: Vasiliy Kisunko
Name: Vasiliy Kisunko
Hometown: Potomac, MD (map)
School: University of Maryland
Major: History
HRC Department: Membership & Community Events
Why intern at HRC?
I’m interning at the Human Rights Campaign because I think it is unbelievable that America still discriminates against the LGBT community. In the land of the free, members of the LGBT community are treated as second class citizens and this is unacceptable.
What do you like most about working at HRC?
I really enjoy knowing that I am contributing towards a better society. The work that HRC does helps this country to be a better place. The people that I work with are immensely dedicated and passionate, which motivates me and makes me very proud to be a part of this fight.
What issue is most pressing for the queer community on your campus?
The most pressing issue on my campus is the lack of education on the issues, such as the Employment Non-Discrimination Act. Increasing LGBT education on my campus would allow for a more inclusive campus.
What other issues interest you besides LGBT equality?
I am interested in women’s rights, environmental justice and health care reform.
What do you do when you’re not out being an activist?
When I am not working at HRC or doing school work, I enjoy playing Ultimate Frisbee for the University of Maryland.
What was the last song you downloaded?
The last song I downloaded was Lady Gaga’s “Bad Romance” and it is awesome!
What upcoming events are you most excited about?
I’m super excited for the DC Rally for Marriage Equality on December 14th! It is going to be awesome and I’m really looking forward to get out there and meet other community members who support marriage equality.
Who would you like to have dinner with?
I would love to have dinner with John Lewis, the Congressman from Atlanta, Georgia. He is a major civil rights leader who participated in the Freedom Rides and worked with MLK. He is also a great supporter of LGBT rights. I would love to hear the firsthand accounts of a great lifelong activist.
What advice would you give to LGBT students?
The advice that I would give to LGBT students is to never give up. There are times when the odds seemed stacked against our cause, but we will win because we are fighting for our beliefs in equality and justice. The key is to get involved and to stay active because nothing will get better unless we make it better.