Growing up, I knew I was different and learned fairly early on which parts of me stood out. I was a child who never shied away from being myself. Feeling different, I always felt safest—and thrived the most—when I saw people in the spaces, I shared who looked like, sounded like, and felt like me. Seeing teachers, family members, and people on my screen who represented the 2SLGBTQIA+ community during times when being out was not always easy made a significant impact on me. These role models and representations paved the way for my generation and me to live loudly and proudly in the ways we are able to today.
I am proud to be a queer man working at Centennial College. My goal in my everyday work is to ensure that incoming youth and guests who are visiting or studying here feel the same level of acceptance and freedom to be their authentic selves. Centennial College provides a space for students, staff, and community members to show up as themselves and be welcomed for who they are.
As a school, and within the field of education, it is important that we continue to intentionally spotlight, support, and amplify the unique voices and perspectives we all bring. It is through discussion, collaboration, and positive intention that everyone continues to thrive. The reality is that there are generations of queer people who did not survive decades of hiding themselves, as well as major health epidemics that we are still grieving today. As present-day members of the 2SLGBTQIA+ community, it is important to acknowledge the stories of activism, protests, and loss as we continue to learn from these experiences. As we face new challenges, we must also continue to celebrate both the wins and the struggles our community has faced—and continues to face.