In celebration of Vancouver Pride this weekend (August 2–3), we invite you to learn about #PCApride through the voices of our LGBTQ2S+ community. Meet Stuart, our exceptional Customer Service Agent at Vancouver Airport, as he shares what Pride means to him and how he both shapes and is shaped by #PCApride.
What does Pride mean to you?
Pride to me is the freedom to be my authentic self and to love whoever I choose. It also means accepting everyone regardless of sexual orientation.
How has your experience been at PCA as an LGBTQ2S+ employee?
Working at PCA is amazing. The people I work with are not only accepting of who I am, but they create an environment that encourages everyone to be themselves and not feel like they must change or hide who they are. It’s a very comforting experience. When I look back at how life was a few decades ago, I am proud of how things have changed.
What has your Pride journey been like?
I was married to a woman for 22 years and have two beautiful children. As much as I enjoyed my life before coming out, it has been an incredible experience and very liberating to be able to be who I am, without feeling alone and struggling with how people would react when they found out I was Gay. Acceptance and the freedom to be your authentic self are extremely powerful and important. As much as society has grown to embrace the LGBTQ2S+ community, I still feel too many young people must face challenges coming out that are too often too hard to overcome.
Do you have a favourite Pride memory?
I have so many amazing Pride memories. The most significant one is going to my first Pride event, and I was terrified because I had just come out. I met some amazing new friends and ended up spending the last 12 years with the guy I met at that event.
At Pacific Coastal Airlines, we celebrate and support the voices that shape the inclusive and diverse culture we proudly embrace. Today and every day, we take pride in representing the many communities that make up PCA. Happy Pride!