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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My first week in Washington, D.C. has been marked by trying to figure out how I, and my experiences and identities, fit into the U.S. Congress (if they do at all). Despite the uncertainty, the cohort of interns I’m a part of has created a space that facilitates safety and queer joy. I am immensely grateful for the LGBTQ Victory Institute, a brilliant organization that allows me to feel like I can take on Capitol Hill, even if many parts of it (i.e. a restroom I can feel safe in) continue to be inaccessible to me. Throughout my days on the Hill and with the cohort, I compile haikus. A collection of haikus from this week are below, compiled in an order that reflects my journey this past week: from confused to joyous.
Trans and disabled
Poet, artist, on The Hill
An organizer
here, where you came from
the government is right here
stand in front, go on
Can’t believe it’s real
Never thought I could be here
Democracy? Here?
Democracy. Here.
Queer staffers making changes
Representation?
Representation:
inspired and hopeful but
can’t pee on The Hill
Material needs
Intersecting with gender
Prepared to not pee
Equity or bust
Material needs not met
Where’s my clementine?
This, professional?
Demand more from Washington
What is representation?
peeing on The Hill
not yet made for Trans people
complicates being
Don’t want the gavel
I’ve never wanted power
Actually, do I?
Just want to change things
I just want it to get done
Need power… what kind?
People power, go!
Start on the local level
Justice focused here
2030 comes
but it bends toward justice
began to change now
focus on learning
co-create something better
add it to the list
Don’t apologize
Resistance and Existence
This is so joyful
I am so happy
healing what I didn’t know
these people, this place
Queer joy is alive
This life is incredible
How did we get here?
