We talked to GW Law's Lambda Law co-presidents, Damian and Patrick, Class of 2025, about their experiences and plans for their group at GW Law. Read more about their experiences below.
1. Why did you choose GW Law?
Damian: I chose GW Law mostly because it is in the center of everything, policy, law, and government. That and because DC at large is well known as a super friendly community for queer people.
Patrick: I chose GW Law because it felt like home. DC is the epicenter of US politics, and it represents so much of what the US is. Fortunately, it is a city full of community for LGBTQIA+ students, and it was extremely important that I find a place where I could have that. My mom was a GW Alum, so it definitely helped that I had a person who thought highly of the school. I always wanted to feel closer to her and understand her better, so GW was an obvious choice.
2. Is there a class or experience at GW Law that has had a significant impact on you both?
Damian: Given that I'm just a rising 2L it's hard to determine if I've even had enough experiences for there to be an "important one." I think taking classes and seeing those professors in contemporary news did have a pretty big wow factor though as you get a sense that there is real impact.
Patrick: I think the most impactful experience I've had at GW Law is orientation week. Classes have been a challenge and expanded my ways of thinking, but those first days with my classmates meant everything. I got to know people from outside my Inn and made meaningful friends who have helped me through so much of life this past year. Orientation truly was a jumpstart to law school, and it was invaluable to my preparedness for what was to come.
3. As leaders of the Lambda Law organization you're seen as an advocate for the LGBTQIA+ community at GW Law. Can you tell us more about the work you hope continues in the 2023-24 academic year?
Damian: As for work in the upcoming year this is one of the first years rolling out of the pandemic. I think that there is a hope to grow and connect not just the queer community at GW but also to reach to other organizations because progress is not singularly focused.
Patrick: Advocacy is always a part of an affinity group geared towards marginalized people. When it comes to the LGBTQIA+ community at GW Law, it is imperative to me that our work betters their lives. We are in a time where trans people and queer people of color are particularly under threat, and I hope to foster a safe space to bring moments of joy in a dark world. At the same time, it is our hope to be a voice for positive change both within the law school and in the larger legal field and increase cooperation across affinity groups. Our battles are each other's.
4. If you could give one piece of advice to incoming 1L students, particularly members of the LGBTQIA+ community, what would you say to them?
Damian: A piece of advice I'd give to incoming 1Ls is just to get out there. DC is a great place and I've met a ton of cool people. Moreover, keep your friends close because 1L is difficult, especially if you're facing issues with regard to your identity, having people that support you is vital.
Patrick: As a piece of advice, please take up the space you deserve. It is hard-wired in the brains of queer people that safety is minimization. Please don't. Your voice matters in the classroom and it matters in the community. Live authentically. Find your chosen family. Take up space.
If you're looking for ways to get involved with Lambda Law, please email [email protected] or consider giving to the Lambda 1L Annual Networking Reception Fund.