The LGBTQ+ Elders and Affirming Community: A Film and Conversation for Erie's Future
September 20, 2023
The LGBT Funds of The Erie Community Foundation hosted its second educational session, "The LGBTQ+ Elders and Affirming Community: A Film and Conversation for Erie's Future.” This event, held at the Tom Ridge Environmental Center, aimed to address the unique challenges faced by the LGBTQ+ community, with a particular focus on issues related to aging.
The event centered around a screening of the acclaimed documentary, "Gen Silent," which intimately follows the lives of six LGBT seniors as they grapple with the difficult decision of whether to hide their sexuality to navigate the long-term healthcare system.
Following the screening, attendees engaged in a thought-provoking panel discussion with Erie-area professionals. The panel provided valuable insight and facilitated a meaningful conversation about the challenges faced by LGBTQ+ elders and how we, as a community, can create a more affirming and supportive environment for them.
"We are excited to continue our mission of addressing the unique challenges faced by the LGBTQ+ community in Erie," said Chuck Scalise, Chair of The LGBT Funds of The Erie Community Foundation. "This educational session aimed to shed light on the issues surrounding LGBTQ+ elders and foster a more inclusive and supportive community for their needs." This education session brought together members of the LGBTQ+ community, allies, eldercare professionals, nurses and doctors.
The complimentary event was made possible through the generous support of sponsors, including UPMC Safe Harbor Behavioral Health, The LGBT Funds of The Erie Community Foundation, and Mercyhurst University.
For more information about The LGBT Funds of The Erie Community Foundation, please contact Olivia Burgess at 814-413-7358 or by email at oburgess@eriecommunityfoundation.org.