Just coming off his duties as president of the Stonewall Democrats of Arkansas, Wade Mitchell still remains very active in the GLBT community in the state.

He grew up in Des Arc, Ark., and attended college at ASU in Jonesboro; after graduation he lived in Lonoke for a couple years and then moved to North Little Rock in 1995.

We asked was some questions and following are those along with his replies:

What kind of career are you in? “I work on computers doing Web site administration.”

Talk about some of the work you have done for the GLBT community.

“I recently came out to all my family. I have been involved in starting the Arkansans for Human Rights and I've served on the board of the Stonewall Democrats of Arkansas since the group's inception. Currently I serve as the vice-president.”

What are your thoughts on coming out, advice to others, etc.?

“Coming out is the single most important message that we send to those around us. It communicates that we are normal people just as they are, but also says that we are NOT ashamed of being ourselves. When members of our community come out in the right way it tells our family, friends, loved ones, co-workers, and even strangers that it is OK to be gay and there is nothing wrong with it. Be proud of who you are and ashamed only of the fact that others could make you doubt yourself.”

What do you see in the near future and long-range for gay rights/equality?

“I think that we need to worry first about hate crimes, second about equality, and third about marriage. Most people will agree that it should be wrong to hurt someone just because of perceived differences.

“These differences, whether based on race, sex, religion, sexual orientation, gender identity or even physical size should not matter; we are all equal. Once equality has been established, marriage/ civil unions, the right to choose, serve in the military … these and other doors will open. But first and foremost we need to feel safe being ourselves and not live in fear because we admit who we are.”

Profiles in Pride Questions:

Date and place of birth?
6:26 p.m. January 7, 1970 at St Vincent's Hospital in Little Rock

What is your favorite food?
My favorite foods are Mexican — cheese dip at Senor Tequila's gets the nod. But, I rarely pass up sweets or chocolate.

What food will you not eat?
The easiest way to keep me away from you at lunch? Do Indian. The curry ruins it for me.

What is the best job you've ever had?
I have many friends and love my former co-workers at Dillard's corporate, but I'm really beginning to enjoy my new job at Arkansas Blue Cross.

What is your dream job?
Governor of Arkansas

If you didn't have to work, what would you do with all of your time?
Probably volunteer my time or work in politics, but travel is one of my favorite things. I enjoy snow skiing, time at the lake and recently I've taken up scuba diving.

Who do you admire most (living or dead)?
Kathy Webb is one of my heroes and another is my college advisor Dr. Charlotte Hinson, because both of these people inspire me without even trying.

Who would you lunch with if you could have anyone (living or dead)?
Bill Clinton just to hear him speak.

Who has had the greatest influence on your life?
My mom and dad, regardless of our differences of opinions they always challenge me to think about things. The best lessons they gave me were to be nice to people not because of who they are but because they are people and have feelings and thought just like me. Also do what is right not because it is popular, but because it is right and I have to live with myself when making wrong decisions.

What one thing would you not have done if you could go back in time?
Would have come clean with my dad when I wrecked my car in college.

What one thing would you have done if you could go back in time?
I would have told my brother and grandmother that I'm gay rather than having them find out though the grapevine.

What is your favorite word?
Sure

Least favorite word?
Can't  

Favorite curse word?
Sh*t

What turns you on?
Scratching my back

What turns you off?
Pompous Attitude

What word would others use to describe you?
My friend Shannon said “charismatic”

What word sums you up?
Friendly