Meet the Interns: Hannah Powell

(Public Policy Intern - Based in Orlando)

1. Tell us a little about yourself…

My name is Hannah Powell, and I’m a junior at Rollins College majoring in Critical Media and Cultural studies and minoring in both Women’s Studies and Economics. I’m the Editor in Chief of our campus magazine, The Independent, and a member of Rollins’ LGBTQ Alliance, Spectrum, and feminist group, Voices for Women. I spend my free time exhausting the Gay and Lesbian section on Netflix, doodling, and reading everything from graphic novels to political autobiographies. When I’m not busy being an intern and student, I enjoy belting showtunes on the drive to where I work part-time at a local independent bookstore.

2. Why are you involved with LGBT activism?

Both as a member of the LGBTQ community and as someone who believes passionately in human rights and equality, activism has become incredibly important to who I am. I want to keep working toward the day when my girlfriend and I are able to walk down any street holding hands, unafraid of the bigotry and violence that impacts ours and other marginalized communities every day.  Especially now, at a time when our country is experiencing such a strong backlash against progress and tolerance, continuing to push forward matters.

3. Why did you want to intern at Equality Florida?

Equality Florida has proven time and again their conviction and drive toward securing equal rights for the LGBTQ community, and they have a profound understanding of the importance of community organizing and intersectionality. I was so excited to meet so many amazing people who have dedicated their lives to making the world a better place — interning with EQFL gave me the opportunity to learn from incredible activists and allies, all while doing my part to help put an end to hate and discrimination. Really, this experience has been the best of so many worlds.

4. What are your plans after you graduate?

I strongly believe that everyone should be given a platform for their voice to be heard, both in the field of journalism and in a truly successful democracy. Although I’m unsure of my plans for the future and my dreams shift with each passing day, I would love to be able to write and advocate for an organization like Equality Florida or a publication with a similar emphasis on activism, feminism, and inclusion. After graduating, I hope to combine my creativity, my passion, and my politics in a way that creates meaningful change.