I was excited, because I knew that in other states around the U.S. people were mailing in paper flip-flops that told Obama "Don't flip flop on DOMA." This was a campaign that encouraged people to send in these letters asking Obama not to flip flop on this policy and rule in favor of the LGBTQ community. I took the opportunity to update others who anxiously awaited this decision via twitter as things happened. It was exciting to be a primary source from attending the press conference that afternoon.
I was thrilled to get to meet the President (and First Lady) because they are the highest rank Government officials currently in office. Never would I have imagined that my advocacy would take me to such levels. Knowing that other people in the room with me had to deal with the "Don't ask don't tell" policy and the DOMA policy really inspired me. Although we are not treated equally, I felt like we were one step closer. It was almost comical when I yelled out to Michelle and she greeted me. She gave me a warm smile and replied "Yes?", and I screamed like I had won a prize after dialing for hours to win a contest on the local radio station for sold out Kenny Chesney tickets. It was exciting to be able to meet them as individuals rather than the people I get to see in magazines and T.V.
Most of my experience with the Youth Advocacy Internship dealt with creating safe spaces for youth by making suggestions at the YRBS (Youth Risk Behavior Survey)board meetings, informing others of the difficulties LGBTQ Youth face in the school systems through trainings, and a on air radio broadcast. On this day, I felt like SMYAL was being recognized as not only "a safe space to be who you are," but a place that extends that safe space beyond our doors into people’s homes, work places and government buildings such as the White House.
Cortez
