Welcome to another episode of Queernundrum! Today, we dive into a crucial and often overlooked topic—the experiences of LGBTQAI+ seniors. Our elders bear the resilience of having navigated discrimination, societal prejudices, and the challenges of developing their identities in less accepting times.

Before we explore the unique journey of LGBTQAI+ seniors, let's take a moment to acknowledge the present. As of today, 84 anti-LGBTQAI+ laws have been passed across the country, while 227 were thankfully shut down. However, 187 laws are advancing, attacking various fronts like accurate IDs, civil rights, free speech, healthcare, public accommodations, and schools. (see ACLU to learn more).

A Glimpse into the Past:

Reflecting on the 1940s, homosexuality was largely criminalized, and individuals faced legal persecution. Living in the closet was a necessity, affecting their sense of community. Homosexuality was considered a mental illness, leading to harmful practices like conversion therapy. Discrimination in healthcare was rampant, and legal protections against discrimination based on sexual orientation or gender identity were nonexistent.

Progress:

Fast forward to today, and there has been a significant shift in societal attitudes. LGBTQAI+ individuals experience greater social acceptance, a sense of community, and there's growing acknowledgment of diverse gender identities and sexual orientations. Legal milestones, like the marriage equality act and the 14th Amendment, mark substantial progress.

Reflection:

Our elder LGBTQAI+ individuals came of age during times of extreme prejudice, while younger generations often experience more supportive environments during their formative years. Elders may have spent a significant part of their lives in the closet due to societal pressures, while younger individuals often grow up in a more visible and accepting LGBTQAI+ culture. Elder LGBTQAI+ individuals might have faced rejection from biological families, leading to the importance of chosen families. Younger generations often experience more openness within their families. We recognize this is not always the case., discrimination still exist.

Our call to action is clear: lets work together to create a future where our LGBTQAI+ seniors can age gracefully, surrounded by environments that honor their resilience, acknowledge their unique journeys, and celebrate the wealth of wisdom they bring to our community.

We celebrate the resilience of our LGBTQAI+ seniors, acknowledging the wisdom they bring to our community. As we advocate for inclusive policies and cultural competence in healthcare, we commit to ensuring that the journey of aging is marked by pride, acceptance, and a continued sense of belonging.

• Donate:/Learn More at SAGE. Founded in 1978, SAGE is a national organization that offers supportive services and consumer resources to LGBTQ+ older people and their caregivers.
• National Resource Center On LGBTQ+ Aging

Intro music by Jahzzar “Please Listen Carefully” “Jahzzar (betterwithmusic.com) CC BY-SA” and Outro music by Scott Holmes “Acoustic Indie Folk” @ [email protected].

Editor: H. Greystone via FinalCut Pro

Writer: G. Thoren