Amanda Harris grew up in Lonoke, Ark., a small town of about 5,000 people. She moved to Texas for a few months to go to school at Baylor University, but decided to come back home and now lives in Conway and attends the University of Central Arkansas. Amanda is a full time activist and part-time student.

We asked her to talk about some of the work she has done for the GLBT community.

“I began activism about three years ago with the UCA Gay-Straight Alliance, PRISM,” Amanda said.

“Shortly thereafter, I met Nick Stinson and helped him create and sustain the Conway League of Queer Activists. I partake in a progressive approach to activism that seeks to dismantle all forms of oppression. I helped organize the covenant marriage protest at Governor Huckabee's wedding ceremony where young activists unfurled banners reading 'Queer Equality Now' inside the ceremony. I have helped organize the National Coming Out Day Parades, Reel Attractions Film Festival, National Transgender Day of Remembrance, etc., and my most recent project is organizing the Arkansas Queer Coalition Conference. In March I will leave to be a part of the Soulforce Equality Ride."
What are your thoughts on coming out, advice to others, etc.?

“Do it in your own time. Don't be afraid if you aren't sure. And, don't get caught up in categories. Just be.”

What do you see in the near future and long-range for gay rights/equality?
“That's a really interesting question. I'm afraid I see ‘gay' rights in the U.S. continuing to be an oppressive movement that refuses to recognize others' struggles. I am still hopeful because I find that queer youth are looking beyond lines of race, class, gender, orientation, etc. and understanding how their actions affect others.”

Profiles in Pride questions:

Date and place of birth?
10/03/1984, Little Rock, Ark.

What is your favorite food?
Mac and cheese

What food will you not eat?
The meat kind

What is the best job you've ever had?
Soulforce Equality Rider!

What is your dream job?
Getting paid to do social justice work

If you didn't have to work, what would you do with all of your time?
I always want to do some kind of work and/or education. Work makes me feel productive.

Who do you admire most (living or dead)?
Jesus, Gandhi, the Soulforce Equality Riders, those who follow their hearts

Who would you lunch with if you could have anyone (living or dead)?
Davey Havok from AFI

Who has had the greatest influence on your life?
My family is wonderful. My friends are wonderful. My professors have also been helpful in cultivating and directing my passions.

What one thing would you not have done if you could go back in time?
No regrets!

What one thing would you have done if you could go back in time?
Nothing.

What is your favorite word?
Queer

Least favorite word?
Retarded, pussy, bitch. Sorry, I have 3.

Favorite curse word?
F*CK! Favorite sentence with my favorite curse word- “I don't give no f*ck!”

What turns you on?
Open-mindedness, gender bending, smiles, a certain boy.

What turns you off?
Honestly, Republicans.

What word would others use to describe you?
Critical

What word sums you up?
Passionate