Posted by Jo on March 31, 2008, 3:58 pm
OPENING THE CLOSET ON AGING: A DAY OF LEARNING AND SHARING
On Wednesday April 9, 2008, Toronto's Senior Pride Network will offer a full day Conference entitled "Opening the Closet on Aging: Amazing Lives!” This event will focus on the special issues of older Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Trans and Two-Spirit people and their needs in the areas of long-term care, health, home care, recreation, and mental health. This is a unique opportunity for service providers and LGBTT community members to learn, gain skills and share ideas.
Why do we need to open the closet on Aging?
Service providers often tell us that they "don't have any lesbian, gay, or bisexual clients or residents" or that "LGBTT people only live in downtown Toronto". Of course this is untrue and the real numbers are usually estimated at between 5 and 10% of the population. However, as a generation that grew up when homosexuality and gender variance were considered "sick" or "criminal" many of our more elderly LGBTT seniors had to live double lives: publicly living in the closet and privately learning how to find love, community and dignity. Many of these elders are now living "invisibly" in our long-term care homes and participating "silently" in our seniors’ organizations. How can we honour their true selves and also provide a safe and respectful environment?
At the same time, members of the LGBTT communities who are reaching mid-life have experienced or have actively worked to promote massive changes in human rights and social attitudes. Many of these "out and proud" community members are wondering what will happen when they too become elderly and in need of services? Will they receive culturally competent care? Will the environment be welcoming and respectful for them and their partners, families and friends?
About This Conference
The conference will be held at the Metro Central YMCA at 20 Grosvenor Street in the heart of Toronto's Gay Village from 8:30 am - 4.30pm.
The cost is $75 for service providers and includes a full day of learning, handouts, lunch and snacks. LGBTT seniors will be admitted at no charge.
Program Highlights
- A community panel of older LGBTT people living amazing lives that shatter stereotypes.
- A workshop on depression and problems with substances
- A panel on issues related to LGBT seniors in the Rehab system
- A panel on preparing for various stages of aging
- Navigating the System and Advocating Once You’re In It
- A screening room showing gay related short films and documentaries.
- Resource tables featuring services for mainstream seniors and LGBTT services
- Canadian Lesbian and Gay Archives exhibit on gay history in Toronto.
- A presentation on how the City of Toronto Homes for the Aged is working to make long term care gay friendly
Registration Information
Spaces are limited. For further information contact Jack Cunningham, Conference Coordinator at The 519 Church Street Community Centre, 519 Church Street Toronto, ON M5S 2M4
seniors2@the519.org or 416 392 6878 ext 306.
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