Cameron Joyce has taken community involvement seriously ever since he landed in Charlotte from his rural home in Randolph County. As an undergraduate student at the University of North Carolina-Charlotte, he volunteered as an on-campus coordinator with President Barack Obama’s campaign in 2008. He later worked as an intern for former Charlotte Mayor Anthony Foxx during the 2012 Democratic National Convention and served on City Councilmember LaWana Mayfield’s campaign.
Joyce, now 24, is finishing his master’s degree in public administration at UNC-Charlotte.
In mid-September, he was appointed chair of the LGBT Democrats of Mecklenburg County, after former Chair Gary Leake resigned, citing his schedule. Joyce had previously served as secretary of the local caucus of the statewide LGBT Democrats of North Carolina.
“I gladly take this opportunity to continue to build the Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, and Transgender Democrats of Mecklenburg County,” Joyce said in a press release announcing his appointment. “I am eager to grow the political participation of LGBT people in the county and advocate for our population as a member of the county executive council of the Mecklenburg County Democratic Party. I urge all LGBT people in Mecklenburg County to recognize the influence of a united voice and the power in your vote as we work together to identify and elect LGBT and Ally representatives for office in every level of government.”
qnotes caught up with Joyce for a get-to-know-you chat.
Matt Comer: What’s your favorite kind of music?
Cameron Joyce: I am a fan of folk and indie music, but I’m also a fan of ‘90s alternative. I like Bon Iver, the Foo Fighters and The Killers.
What’s your idea of a good weekend evening? Are you the staying-in type or the going-out type?
I like to go out for drinks and eat at a restaurant, but I’d prefer it to be more chill and laid back. My favorite parts of town are South End and Plaza Midwood. I like all the restaurants and shops in South End and I like Plaza Midwood because it’s a more relaxed environment.
Do you like spicy or non-spicy foods?
Spicy foods. A good restaurant is Cho Won Garden. It’s a Korean place. It’s not too spicy, but it’s good.
You grew up in a rural town. Do you like that feel or the city?
I prefer the city. I like the country because it’s dark and quiet and you can see the stars, but you can always visit that. I’d want to live here. There’s access to everything all the time.
Why is it important for young people to be involved politically or in the community?
Young people are generally left out of the political process because they don’t come out and vote and don’t get involved. So, it’s important because I think our generation is a little more progressive and forward thinking. We need to put that pressure and influence into the political process and not let our ideas and voices be left out.
Do you prefer a good movie or a good book?
I like film. I like the art of film. But, this hasn’t been the best movie season, I think.
When you travel, do you go to the mountains or the beach?
I prefer the mountains in the fall. That’s the best. There is a place in the mountains called Orchard at Altapass. It’s really peaceful to see the leaves changing, get fresh apples and listen to Bluegrass music. : :