A few weeks ago, I received a text from someone at work, Joanna, asking if it would be ok if they nominated me for the 2SLGBTQIAP+ Advocate Award; every year, Queen City Pride hosts an award gala to honour people in the community that make a difference in different ways. I accepted, but had some reservations about it. There were other nominees who’d made incredible contributions to our communities health and well being that I thought had a much better shot. Not to mention, this kind of thing makes me feel really, really uncomfortable.

Dan and I decided we weren’t going to go to the gala. Then Joanna texted and asked if we’d be sitting at the COR corporate table. This isn’t an invitation I could turn down. Despite how uncomfortable I was feeling, I decided that I was being directed to go. Then on Monday, I got the text that told me I’d won.

SHUT UP! ME?

When I accepted the award, I spoke about my church and how it was founded on an act of spiritual resistance, of queer resistance. I didn’t get deeply into what the ECE-ECC is about because I want to give people an opportunity to approach on their own terms. I then spoke about a quiet, active group in our community that sees when there is a need that is not being filled, organizes, and works to fill that need. Last summer, we collectively donated hundreds of bottles of water and meals to those in need; we saw an opportunity to offer compassion and love where it was absent. I talked about how I was nothing–not in a self deprecating way, but that I was only part of a collective group of individuals who made an impact on the lives of people.

There are humble people who attend Mass every Sunday, and are a part of our worship community. They work quietly in the background to ensure that justice and compassion are working in balance. This is a taxing thing spiritually, physically, mentally, and emotionally. There are humble people working in community and religious organizations in our city to ensure that individuals at risk have an opportunity to experience gentleness of words and hands.

I dedicate this award to the humble people. I am so proud, and grateful, to know you and count you as my colleagues and friends.