CARP stands with every LGBTQ2+ senior across the country; in June and every day of the year.

There exists in Canada a pervasive and misguided idea that all older adults can be painted with the same brush, but nothing could be further from the truth.

We’re proud that our Members come in every colour of the rainbow (with a few extra shades thrown in for good measure!), and we fight for every last one of them to live with the dignity they deserve; regardless of sexuality, race, gender identity, religion or anything else that makes them stand out.

After all, standing out is something to be celebrated.

This Pride Month, CARP encourages everyone to think about the struggles of our LGBTQ2+ (Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Queer, Questioning, 2-Spirited +  everyone else who doesn’t identify as heterosexual or ‘straight’) communities.

Studies show that LGBTQ2+ seniors are more likely to suffer from social isolation due to specific causes like not having children to speak up for them, facing discrimination from people around them, the negative mental health repercussions of having to hide their sexual orientation (often for their entire lives) and not feeling included in activities or groups for seniors in their communities. These vulnerable seniors are also often mistreated and abused in long-term care, having their identities ignored by staff and family members, or facing outright abuse as a result of their sexual orientation.

Every senior deserves to feel included, represented and loved—that’s the purpose of Pride. 

It’s important to remember that Pride is for everyone (even if you’re straight)! Anyone can be an ‘Ally’ (someone who stands up for members of the LGBTQ2+ community)—all it takes is a belief that everyone deserves the same basic human rights and respect. In fact, Allies play a critical role in making life better and more inclusive for all.

This month, we’ll be sharing some information about Pride, its history, and how you can make a difference in your community.

Here’s to a more inclusive Canada, for everyone.

Happy Pride! 

Read: A Brief History of Pride in Canada

Read: Stick and Stones: Why inclusive words matter