We the People is a blog series that features the stories of members, supporters, volunteers, and allies of the American Civil Liberties Union of North Dakota. Together we are accomplishing critical work in our state to protect and advance civil liberties across the Midwest and beyond.
Name: Em Powers
Pronouns: they/them/she/her
Position: Digital Communications Intern
As Moira Rose in “Schitt’s Creek” once said, “Never let the bastards get you down!”
For Em Powers, the digital communications intern at the ACLU of North Dakota, that’s become a personal philosophy.
“I consider myself an optimist – with a reasonable amount of skepticism – and try to see potential for good in as many moments as I can,” Em says. “I love to laugh and make others laugh, and I pare that with a ridiculous amount of empathy. You’ll never know if I’m crying from laughter or not.”
No matter what a day brings, it’s a sentiment that keeps Em going. “I came out as queer my first semester of college, and it’s been an uphill climb from there,” they said.
That’s a big part about why Em, who is an artist and a writer, is excited about working for the ACLU this semester. “I am thrilled to use my communication skills to promote social justice causes that are close to my heart and affect so many people.”
But it’s not all work and no play for Em. With three younger adopted and two biological siblings, they spend a lot of time going on adventures with them and playing in the backyard. Otherwise, you’ll find Em rambling to friends about obscure art history facts, scouting out good places to eat, and taking care of their plants – more than 20 of them!
When did you first hear about the ACLU and why is the work appealing to you?
I grew up in a military and lawyer family, so I’ve heard about the ACLU since I was very young. I started reading books on law and policy before sixth grade – I kid you not! I am surprised when peers don’t know what the ACLU is, and I have to explain. Even though I proudly chose to major in fine arts, I’ve always known I wanted to work with nonprofits. The ACLU stands for so many important issues that I am passionate about.
Which of the ACLU’s issue areas are you particularly passionate about and why?
The ACLU’s work for the LGBTQ+ and Two Spirit community stands out to me. So many of my dear friends are queer and trans and I want to see the LGBTQ+ community thrive. I have seen so many friends face discrimination due to their gender. I will always stand for safety and freedom for everyone. And, as a person with a uterus, reproductive rights are also on my mind frequently and often. Only the person with the uterus should get to be in charge of their body!
What excites you about communications advocacy work?
I’ve been a writing and creating art since I was a little kid, and it is all I’ve ever wanted to do. I look forward to using these skills in a communications position that promotes issues I strongly believe in. I am looking forward to creating graphics and putting together videos in this position.
Do you have any advice for someone who might be interested in getting more politically involved in their community?
Check if there are local organizations or nonprofits that are working on projects that you are interested in supporting. There are always organizations looking for partners and I think getting involved in that way can lead to political involvement. Starting local is great way to begin and can help give you a sense of what you’re interested in or how your skills can be applied.
Which of the Constitution’s amendments are most important to you and why?
Freedom of speech is important to me especially in this line of work. The incorrect interpretation of this amendment creates chaos sometimes, but the concept of being able to express yourself and speak out for others is vital.
What are you most looking forward to during your time as an intern?
As election season is happening during my internship, I think it will be a very informative and exciting experience. I hope to learn more about communicating concisely through video editing and learn more about getting information out to a variety of different audiences.