Pride Champion: Connie Clerici

Why is pride important to you?

Pride is important to me because I believe in the good of all people. No one should ever have to feel devalued for who they are. I know this feeling from personal experience, which I will not go into. I have concluded over the years that Oppressors do it for power, as they do not have the same capacity to love others, and therefore it is easier to keep communities marginalized so as not to deal with the outcomes.

I have had the amazing opportunity to learn from the Gay community and the many friends I have who belong to this compassionate community. I have learned that love really is unconditional. I have learned that it is okay to have a voice and to use it to help others. I have learned that what powerful people say in public forums does not always match their actions when the camera is off. It is a method to maintain power over others. I have learned that education is really important in order to have a voice. I have learned and appreciated that the Gay community supports one another unconditionally.

When you were growing up, could you ever have imagined that you'd be in a series like this?

Not really because I would never have imagined it would be needed in society. I am naive as I believe we should care for everyone.

Is there someone some event that was central in your experience as a 2SLGBTQ+ community member?

There have been so many defining moments for me. I met a wonderful man who took the time to give me a tour of the hospital he worked at. The bricks and mortar were not important to him — the people were, regardless of the position they held within the hierarchy. I met everyone formally with an introduction that included their name and often a family story. This man valued people. Too often we meet people on a daily basis that tell you what you wish to hear, but when action is required, you are forgotten. I did not know this man was gay nor would it have mattered. I just knew he was people focused in a very authentic manner. We quickly became lifetime friends and work colleagues.

I have had the great opportunity to work alongside another gentleman who has become my moral compass. I did not know he belonged to the Gay community nor would it have mattered. What we shared was a real passion for people.

In summary, what I am attempting to relay is that being oppressed is a terrible problem so many face in society. The Gay community has developed coping mechanisms that recognize the value all people bring to society, while being deeply authentic. I am attracted to the high level of acceptance and love for all.

Why were we lucky enough for you to agree to this series? Why did you want to do it?

I supported this series to support those who face oppression in the hopes of making a little bit of difference for those who need a chance to grow. This series is a meaningful way of giving another fellow human a chance, and perhaps an easier journey than I have had.

Is there a piece of advice you'd like to share with individuals struggling to be accepted (either by others, or themselves)?

You are valuable and society needs you to succeed and carry the torch so you can make someone else’s life journey easier. The oppression you currently feel is your future strength. You need to continue your education so as to help others who do not have this privilege and therefore do not have a voice. You will be a catalyst for change. Share your love of people in an authentic manner.

Do you have a Pride tradition?

Not really. I support my friends and colleagues who belong to the Gay community every day. One colleague wrote to me to state I provide a safe place to work, which surprised me as I often think everyone shares the same values as I do when it comes to people. Unfortunately, this isn’t the case. I went back and asked my colleague what it was that I actually do. I was advised that it was my values and the fact that I do not tolerate oppression of people at all.