National Honor Our LGBTQ+ Elders Day

On this National Honor Our LGBTQ+ Elders Day, I am proud to have created an affirming space for the LGBTQ+ community and allies. I want to recognize, as a gay Gerontologist, that I am able to have the freedom and rights that I do because these elders and allies paved the way. Even though we still face much discrimination today, I’m able to have more freedom to be myself today then I would have 25+ years ago.

I want to point out the difference between creating a safe space and creating an affirming space. A safe space more so involves the environment, where you don’t need to be afraid of attacks and discrimination. An affirming space is an environment where you can truly be yourself and be embraced. I have created an affirming space, through AgeWell Advocacy, where the LGBTQ+ community and allies can express themselves openly and honestly. I celebrate this community!

I also want to highlight the need for more public support. The past couple of years have seen a dramatic decrease in public support for the LGBTQ+ community. This lack of public support creates a view that our community is not as embraced as it should be. If you are an ally, be proud to support us and show your pride. As I continue to build this affirming space, I don’t back down from showing my pride. Even as people around me have suggested that I not show my support so much, I have stayed true to my values.

For my LGBTQ+ community, I see you and let us recognize some of the benefits to being a part of this community. For example, same-sex couples can experience familiar bodies when caregiving. Often, two gay partners understand what it’s like to live in a male body and this can help with caregiving tasks such as bathing and toileting. Let’s not shy away from talking about this because this can create a relationship based on being comfortable with supporting each other. This situation can apply to some of the other identities in the LGBTQ+ community as well.

Lastly, I want to make sure everyone knows that the LGBTQ+ community is much more than sexuality. Our community is filled with culture, history, adversity, and art. Yesterday, I attended my local LGBTQ+ film festival. As I watched the shorts, I experienced a beautiful celebration of art and identity. I was so happy to see our stories on the big screen. These were stories of identity, love, acceptance, and culture.

If you need guidance in caring for your older loved one, call AgeWell Advocacy at 803.486.5322.