The political science major has been working for the Democratic congressman for Pennsylvania's 13th district all summer.
In mid-June when the Supreme Court ruled on marriage equality, one of the spectators outside waving a blue and yellow equality flag was Michael Furey '17. But he isn't just watching history be made this summer on the hill, he's taking part in it himself by working for Rep. Brendan F. Boyle, the Democratic congressman for Pennsylvania's 13th district.
As part of his duties Furey is drafting correspondence and policy memos, attending meetings, and engaging with Boyle's constituents, including taking them on tours of the Capitol. "Everyone in the Congressman's office is so kind and dedicated,” he says.“I am just thrilled that I am part of the team and contributing in any way I can.”
At Haverford, Furey is a political science major with a minor in economics, and he hopes to write his senior thesis on the 14th amendment, one of the post-Civil War additions to the Constitution, which addresses citizenship rights and equal protection of the laws.“It was so exciting to be in Washington on the day of the Court's decision in Obergefell v. Hodges,” says Furey, referring to the recent marriage ruling, in which the majority ruled on the basis of the 14th amendment.“I want to research legal precedent and the Supreme Court's ability to continue addressing inequalities in the United States, such as discrimination against LGBT individuals and income inequality related to the funding of school districts.”
Furey has always been passionate about law, but Haverford's professors and classes have influenced and guided that passion. “Haverford emphasizes community, and communal service,” explains Furey.“[It] inspires the sense that one's education is a great responsibility—a tool that should always be used to help someone else before oneself. I am inspired by my professors and my fellow students who always strive to benefit our community.” After graduating, he plans to continue enacting Haverfordian values as he obtains a law degree and enters economic public policy work.
“I have always been optimistic about politics, and I am strongly opposed to cynicism,” says Furey. “When working in public policy, you have to embrace those visionary ideas and take a calculated leap of faith. Idealism is never a barrier to realistic action—it is the very thing that drives great change.”
