OUT ON THE HILL is the official blog of the Victory Congressional Interns. Views expressed do not necessarily reflect those of LGBTQ+ Victory Institute. Learn more about the internship at victoryinstitute.org/vci.
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Starched suits and stiff strides down marble halls with hushed conversations and hurried political maneuvering. As I flew into Washington, DC from Georgia—my home state—to begin my time on the Hill, these were the images of federal politics that filled my head and made my palms sweat. Now, though, I’ve found my worries to be unfounded. The congressional spaces I have found myself in and the people I have met through LGBTQ+ Victory Institute have fostered an experience far more comforting than the stuffy atmosphere I’d envisioned.
In my political, organizing, and journalism work back home, I’ve always gravitated towards close-knit communities. The political staffers, federal workers, and, of course, fellow interns with which I’ve immersed myself in conversation have made my transition to intern work seamless and exciting. From formal roundtables in congressional offices to informal conversations in less regal rooms, I have found a unique view into the lives and work of queer employees and interns on the Hill. More than that, I have found a collection of like-minded individuals who are unabashedly candid about the ups-and-downs—struggles and triumphs—that they have encountered in their months, years, or even decades as LGBTQ+ public servants and advocates.
And in my own office, that of Congresswoman Summer Lee (PA-12), I’ve quickly felt appreciated, staff making an effort to ensure my experience is as valuable as possible—including learning more about the behind-the-scenes of policy work. Provided time by my supervisors to explore and take advantage of the events and offerings of day-to-day Hill life, I have heard from experts in fields with which I am knowledgeable, including the incorporation of artificial intelligence (AI) in healthcare and the future of space exploration from the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA).
Already, I have formed bonds and connections that feel genuine, with staff, other interns, members of congress, and visiting professionals. Even at the end of days where I’ve fulfilled and doubled my step goal, my fellow Victory Congressional Interns (VCIs) have continued to lift me up with reassuring words, and they’ve inspired me to make the most of the opportunities at my disposal this summer.
My fellow VCIs and I come from all corners of the country and from all walks of life. For me, this summer was an exercise in getting outside of my comfort zone; I have never lived and worked independently outside of Georgia, and doing so in Congress seemed like an exciting and somewhat intimidating prospect. So far, my experience has exceeded my expectations, giving me a new perspective of and appreciation for the work of our public servants, and the many dedicated staff, policy experts, and interns that support them. But my main takeaway has centered around the people I’ve met and all the people I hope to: community makes all the difference.
