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It was such a huge honour to be recognized by my peers at the International Gay Lesbian Travel Association (IGLTA) at the annual Voyage Awards Reception with the 2018 Pioneer Award. The IGLTA recognized my contributions in creating visibility and leadership within Canada as well as on a global stage for LGBTQ Tourism.
Perhaps what was even more exciting for me was to have the Government of Canada acknowledge my work and contributions and share how proud they are. Below is a letter from the Special Advisor to the Prime Minister on LGBTQ Affairs, Randy Boissonnault .
Mr. Nelson, Thank you for sharing this exciting news with my office. I want to extend my most sincere congratulations to you for receiving the honour of the IGLTA Pioneer award. Your hard work is saving and changing lives and I cannot imagine a more deserving recipient. It was a delight for me to congratulate you on behalf of the Government of Canada at the IGLTA Gala.
Our Government is committed to creating a Canada where everyone can feel safe and be free to be who they are and love who they love. That is why we are working hard to fight homophobia, transphobia, and biphobia, and will continue to champion the rights of all LGBTQ2 people. To see Canadians sharing this work is a heartening this. As a volunteer at the Vancouver 2010 Olympics, I must say that I am so proud to see Pride House started by Canadians, in Canada.
Thank you for your hard work for the advancement of LGBTQ2 rights. I know that our paths will cross again soon.
All my best,
Randy Boissonnault
Member of Parliament for Edmonton Centre
Special Advisor to the Prime Minister on LGBTQ2 Issues