14 Wing marks International Transgender Day of Visibility
14 Wing Greenwood joined International Transgender Day of Visibility efforts today, March 31, raising the transgender flag at the base’s main gate in a sign of support for the “existence, experiences, culture and value of the trans people in our lives.
“Living authentically has made me stronger, more capable and, I think, kinder,” said Captain Gordon Tait, military co-chair of the 14 Wing Defence Team Pride Advisory Organization. “It has made me a better warrior. Part of the purpose of today is to draw attention to the trans experience. What I’ve shared is only a small part of that.
“I’m very privileged.”
Tait acknowledged he has been made fun of by teenagers – even just a couple weeks ago, and had his feelings hurt – “more than I expected.
“But I haven’t lost my job. I haven’t been physically assaulted. I haven’t had to fight for access to care. I have a family that supports me.”
14 Wing members, raising the transgender flag and bringing awareness to the challenges some people face around the world to their safety – and their lives: “Today, we should think of them.
“Whether you connect with this day as a trans person, as someone who has lived part of that experience or as an ally – today is a day to celebrate!”
Lieutenant-Colonel Alex Gignac encouraged those at the morning flag-raising to “spread the word.
“It’s a visibility day, a good day,” he said. “The more we know ourselves, the more we know our warriors,” echoing Tait’s reference to personal self-awareness in the wing’s professional workspace. Gignac encouraged people to attend the DTPAO’s free pizza and “Ask me Anything” lunch and learn at the Annapolis Mess at noon.
