Polar Pride on the Antarctic Side

This week we celebrated Polar Pride. A time of visibility and support for the LGBTQIA+ community that work in some of the most remote places in the world.

Started in 2020 by the collaboration of the British Antarctic Survey (BAS), the Foreign, Commonwelath & Development Office (FCDO) and LBGTQ+ staff networks, November 18th marks the International Day of LGBTQIA+ people in STEM.

In a place of physical and social isolation, the last thing we want is for people to feel isolated for who they are. In Antarctica and polar research, we welcome people from all walks of life regardless of their identity. There is a place for everyone and this week brings visibility and awareness that this community reaches all corners of the globe.

To celebrate, I had members of the McMurdo community sign a pride flag throughout the week so I could take it diving and bring my community with me in a unique way. I myself was moved by the support and community I felt this week, making me feel not only seen, but welcomed in such an objectively harsh environment of cold temperatures and strong winds.

Even after a quick month here, the strong bonds between the people of McMurdo has been felt. Uplifting each other and creating space for everyone to be exactly who they want to be. Remember there's no right way to be queer, and you are perfect the way you are. Happy Polar Pride.