Meet the Interns: Jack Mills
(Field Intern)

1. Tell us a little about yourself…

My name is Jack Mills, and I'm currently a sophomore transitioning from Tallahassee Community College to Florida State University majoring in Criminology, Political Science, and International Affairs. I am beginning my political activism by volunteering for democratic Governor candidate, Andrew Gillum and U.S. Representative Al Lawson. I am very interested in Speech and Debate as well as socio-political clubs and organizations and cannot wait to begin chipping through the progress needed for the LGBTQ+ community. When I'm not volunteering, campaigning, or running around signing people up to vote (which hasn't made me very popular), I enjoy taking a break, spending time with friends, attending the school of Starbucks enough to earn my 'A', and am always surfing Netflix for the next big binge!

2. Why are you involved with LGBTQ activism?

Coming from a family that learned acceptance as I became open with my sexuality, I find acceptance and pride to be a pressing matter for todays youth. All too often do I see or hear stories of America's youth entrapped in the rage of their family, and I believe that with knowledge and guidance, we can revert such negativity into a positive atmosphere. I plan to make a meaningful change starting with this younger generation, as it will grow into the concept of positive acceptance and awareness for generations to come.

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

Equality Florida has not only been an outlet for so many to ventilate issues and concerns within there communities, but has developed into an organization concentrated on the equal rights for the LGBTQ community. This not only impacts me and those who are comfortable with themselves within their own sexuality-- but guides those who are fearful and hesitant of their sexuality to a safe haven of love and support from a solidified family-styled unit. I want to become a part of why someone decided to persevere through the radicalized discrimination which plagues the social progression of the LGBTQ community. Although my parents disagree with many of my life choices, a concept taught to me at an early age was the difference between those who say they want something versus those who fight for it. While they never intended for such a life lesson to submit an internship application to Equality Florida, I want to begin seeing change... and the way I do such, is by fighting, instead of simply asking for change to happen for us.

4. What are your plans after you graduate?

After I graduate Florida State University in 2021, I plan to directly enter Law School, specifically on track for a LLM degree, pushing to being a criminal defense attorney, defending the rights of those who were wrongfully convicted, and minorities who face unfair and hate-filled trials. Besides the monetary value supporting this craving for social change and criminal justice reform, I hope to contribute meaningfully to our country, adding elements from my degrees to impact the lives of those I cannot wait to have the pleasure of meeting.