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An integral part of our Business Services team, Adrian F. brings heart and authenticity to everything he does.
While Pride Month occurs every June, Pride itself is a lived experience for millions of people every day. It is the collection of countless journeys, trials, and triumphs of LGBTQ+ individuals and communities—and we’re honored to uplift one of those stories from our team member, Adrian. He is a bright light at Sunward, and part of his professional success has been bringing his full self to the table to form deeper connections.
1. What does Pride Month, or Pride generally, mean to you?
The biggest meaning Pride has for me is showing younger LGBTQ+ individuals that there are others like you. Growing up in rural New Mexico, I didn't see anyone that fit how I was growing up. I recall the only individual to ever come out (other than me) was extremely judged. Much like Pride, his coming out was a protest! A protest saying you take pride in who you are as a person.
2. What are some of your favorite things about being part of the LGBTQ+ community?
The acceptance and love for everyone. When you're in a queer space, it's very welcoming. We know what it's like to not be accepted in different spaces, so we strive to make everyone feel welcome. Most queer people try not to assume anything and let you show up as you are.
3. How does your identity as a gay man affect you in the workplace?
As a gay man, I've always viewed my journey in parallel with the struggles of being a woman in the workplace. A powerful book title is Think Like a Man, Act Like a Lady. This spoke to me, because while I've felt torn between worlds of being "a man" and acting with qualities some would call "feminine", I've always thought I deserved to be at the table just as much as anyone else.
When I was younger, I was terrified. I heard there were states where you could be fired based on sexual orientation. It wasn’t until 2020 that the Supreme Court ruled workers can’t be fired for being gay or transgender. But little did I know I was surrounded by some of the most supportive and caring individuals who accept me for who I am. I've been blessed to work at a place where I never have to hide or worry about belonging. I think it has made me an even better employee because I show up to work as my full, authentic self.
4. How has Sunward’s culture and community encouraged you to be open and authentic at work?
Ever since I started my career at Sunward, I have felt welcomed and accepted by my colleagues. I recall being so nervous about coming to work with painted nails from a wedding I attended. I spoke with my manager, sweat dripping, nails buried deep in my palms. My manager simply chuckled and said it wasn't a big deal at all—even saying they looked good. To be clear, painting your nails doesn’t determine your sexuality, but it was being perceived as “different” that made me nervous.
I think when we show up as our authentic selves in all areas of our lives, we show up as better people! Ready to work without the burden of putting on a fake image for someone else. What changed my mentality was framing it as giving people around me the gift of who I really am. If they don't like it, they aren't my people. In the words of Kacey Musgraves: "Say what you think, love who you love, ‘cause you just get so many trips 'round the sun."
5. Have there been any experiences where your unique perspective has helped you connect with a member or coworker?
One of my best friends at the credit union when I first started could tell I was hiding something for the first few months. I'd always say I was "getting married" in the fall but never mentioned to whom. It was probably silly to think it was going well. People would believe I'm a natural blond before thinking I wasn’t gay! Jokes aside, my relationship with her was fostered by our shared belief in a higher power. My faith has gotten me through so much. I feel like I opened her eyes to know someone who identifies as LGBTQ+ can have more in common with her than one might think.
