I’ve been fortunate to have lived and traveled all over Canada and the U.S. No matter where we lived, my wife and I were always proud that, as Canadians, we celebrate diversity and embrace that we don’t all talk the same, look the same, or love the same. I’m proud that acceptance and tolerance is part of our national identity.

 

To be honest, I’ve lived in some places where there was a profound negative energy and often unrealistic stereotypes applied to anyone who was different. These biases were especially true for people in the LGBTQ+ community. This was probably the most difficult for me and my wife. Some of the people we love the most in the world are gay and it breaks my heart that there are situations or communities where they are fearful of being their true self.

 

We always try to be strong advocates for diversity and inclusion. It makes it so much more energizing when we live in a community or work for a company like YYC that shares our values and I am so happy that YYC demonstrates that so proudly.

 

Thank you, Mike, for sharing your story and “coming out” as an ally to the LGBTQ+ community here at YYC. Email YYCcommunications@yyc.com if you’d like to share your personal story.

 

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Know what an ally is and why it’s important

 

An LGBTQ+ ally is someone who respects equal rights, gender equality, and LGBTQ+ social movements; stands up for members of the LGBTQ+ community; and challenges homophobia, biphobia, and transphobia. Allies increase protection, safety, and equality.

 

You can communicate your support in simple ways, such as wearing a pride pin on your lanyard (which are getting handed out at the Aug. 29 lunch ‘n’ learn), by attending LGBTQ+ support events like the Calgary Pride Parade on Sept. 1, or by joining an advocacy effort. You can also show support by posting pictures of yourself with our Insta-worthy YYC and CANADA letters in rainbow colours and our two new rainbow crosswalks (in front of the Delta hotel and inside the terminal in Concourse B at the LINK crossing).

 

These actions show people who have faced challenges or who have previously not been accepted for who they are that they have your support in little and big ways.