Change is uncomfortable

My first unit had two queer folks I was aware of: one openly, who was often the target of whispers by his fellow techs; the second I knew only because I was the clerk who drafted the common‑law application for him and his partner. My heart swelled in this experience because he trusted me and felt safe.

If there were others, I was not aware.

The culture was still hostile, if not openly so, to anyone who didn’t fit the restrictive definition of what an aviator, soldier or sailor was.

As ripples are wont to do, they have been persistent and became a wave. Various equity groups have been established, opening space at the table for those who may not have been invited to participate previously as their true selves. Opening space at the table demonstrates not only will the CAF accept you if you can breathe, wear a uniform and make a timing, but you are valued regardless of your sexuality, gender expression or ancestral heritage.

Being posted from Edmonton to the comparatively tiny outpost of Suffield initially felt isolating in a way that Southern Alberta can do to a self‑described chaos goblin like myself, who has up to this point happily remained in the cupboard with the other pansexual folks. But growth demands we be pushed out of our comfort zone; otherwise we stagnate.

So when asked by Captain Taylor Rogalsky to be 2IC for CFB Suffield’s road move to Edmonton for the CAF’s historic first Pride Parade held on a military base, it was an enthusiastic yes. Her courage to unabashedly be herself enables others to do the same.

As I began to send out co‑ordinating instructions and corresponding with our participants, it became clear there is a community here, whether they explicitly fall under a letter in the LGBTQIA2S+ umbrella, are an ally/advocate, or of an adjacent community. Everyone was enthusiastic and welcoming. This was not a tasking under duress, but one of collective passion and intent.

Though our road move was plagued with a few vehicular hiccups, we arrived in Edmonton safely. The day of the parade had a palpable energy. There was a deeply inspiring electricity and optimism in the air that we as a collective institution are on a path of growth and forward momentum. This was something I couldn’t have imagined would actually come to fruition when I joined. It was great to see members with their partners, families (and found families!) and children, comprising a wide swath across demographics of rank, trade and experience. This is the genuine support and inclusion I long to see represented within the greater CAF.

When we bring others up we bring out the best in them; we bring out the best in each other. Our breadth of experience is our strength. Hearing stories of fellow soldiers who endured hardship, violence, imposed shame and career ramifications put into perspective how far we’ve come, but that does not negate there is still further to go.

Every individual, every section, branch, unit and beyond is responsible to keep moving in the onward and upward direction.