Mike Manning, 23
Born in Fort Lauderdale, Florida. Grew up in Thornton, Colorado. Now lives in Los Angeles, California.
General
Taking his past experiences with leadership and youth involvement, Mike Manning hit the ground running in Washington D.C. in the beginning of MTV’s 23rd Season of The Real World. Landing a job with the Human Rights Campaign during his first week in the District, along with Energy Action Coalition shortly thereafter, Mike didn’t waste any time getting involved with issues that were important to him.
Activist/Public Speech:
Over the course of the season, Mike went from a newly-out college student, to a full blown activist for LGBT equality, working with the HRC and Servicemembers United on the “Voices of Honor Tour,” and eventually on the HRC Field Team. On the Field Team, Mike lobbied members of Congress for LGBT-friendly legislative action such as the repeal of Don’t Ask Don’t Tell, the passing of the Employment Non-Discrimination Act, and the now-passed Anti-Hate Crimes Bill. He also worked on the “No Excuses” Campaign, helping to orchestrate meetings and prepare constituents wanting to speak to their representatives about equality in America. Later Mike returned to his home state of Colorado, where he continued to spread the message of equal rights. Since he has moved to Los Angeles, CA where he balances a career in entertainment with a committment to equality and the pursuit of equal rights.
Entertainment:
Following the handfuls of theatre productions and acting competitions in which Mike participated in as a child, his experience in The District only amplified his passion for being in front of the camera. Since then, Mike has been involved with films in the Denver area, as well as other entertainment-geared activities. Mike has also become increasingly comfortable in front of the camera with the many televised interviews and talk shows that have followed the show’s production. He has now decided that on the big screen is where he wants to be, and brings a passion to his work that is all his own. After filming MTV’s The Real World, Mike worked as a host for VISTA TV in Denver. He has since moved to Los Angeles, CA to pursue a career in entertainment.
Platforms:
Religion and Sexuality, Faith, Coming Out, Politics, LGBT Equality, Reality TV, Health and Wellness