Cheri’s Connection Corner - Pride Month 💜💙🩵💚💛🧡❤️🩷🤍🩶

@SunShineAlwaysGrateful

1st part 

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@SunShineAlwaysGrateful

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@SunShineAlwaysGrateful thanks for this thread!

Are you in the LGBTQ+ Community or an Ally? I support the rights of all people.

How does being over 50 impact your perspective on Pride month and LGBTQ+ rights? I have met many wonderful LGBTQ associated people and so I go by the motto, live and let live.

@SunShineAlwaysGrateful

Hi, Grateful,

Are you in the LGBTQ+ Community or an Ally?  I'm an ally.

How does being over 50 impact your perspective on Pride month and LGBTQ+ rights?  All humans should have equal rights.

What role do older individuals play in supporting and advocating for LGBTQ+ equality during Pride month?  I think it's one of wisdom.  We can show that love for all people is the way to think and live.

How can Pride month celebrations be made more inclusive and welcoming for people over 50 within the LGBTQ+ community?  I really dont know.

What advice would you give to younger generations about navigating both aging and embracing their LGBTQ+ identity?  Gosh, that's tough because I am of an age where lgbtq+ people were not out when I was young.  So, I am growing up with them and the world, learning as I go.  I wish everyone blessings from God, though.

I suppose I would be a part of it. 

How does being over 50 impact your perspective on Pride month and LGBTQ+ rights? 

I wonder if I would have had the courage and the strength to accept and live as I should have (over 40 years ago) , if it would’ve made anything better for others struggling. Would things be any different/better in current times?

What role do older individuals play in supporting and advocating for LGBTQ+ equality during Pride month? 

Everyone should play a positive and supportive role in true acceptance.

How can Pride month celebrations be made more inclusive and welcoming for people over 50 within the LGBTQ+ community? 

Too much fear and intimidation from society keeps me from even considering participating.

What advice would you give to younger generations about navigating both aging and embracing their LGBTQ+ identity? 

I am the farthest thing from being a good source for advice.

@SunShineAlwaysGrateful

Being over 50 and supporting our peers known to the community and be positive members in the community and encourage others who wish to express themselves to be open about who they are and who they identify as are all ways us over 50 can make it safe place for others. 

You are worthy of living and expressing how you need to live your life. Be you and do what fits your life and when ready to be actively engaged you will get support we are here … and Allies are here too. We as a community got you. 

@SunShineAlwaysGrateful

Are you in the LGBTQ+ Community or an Ally?

I am LGTBQ

How does being over 50 impact your perspective on Pride month and LGBTQ+ rights? 

I have mixed perspectives when surrounding Pride Month and LGBTQ+ rights. Being a 50+ LGBTQ person, being part of the early days of  fighting for local LGBTQ rights (in Canada), as well as organizing/participating in the early Pride events, I have witnessed progress of LGBTQ rights, alongside more inclusionary Pride events overall. Yes, there are problems arising/resurfacing. This something where, in my opinion, must be addressed in 'unity'. "United, we stand - Divided, we fall" .

What role do older individuals play in supporting and advocating for LGBTQ+ equality during Pride month? 

Hosting Pride events within our own sub-community, hosting "History" events, mentoring, telling our stories, participating in parades, put up a Pride flag

How can Pride month celebrations be made more inclusive and welcoming for people over 50 within the LGBTQ+ community? 

Reaching out to LGBTQ elders, through visits, as some elders are unable to attend celebrations; 50+ events, "History" events/walks, "History" posters, podcasts, target 50+ LGBTQ organizations for participation/input; performers; dances

What advice would you give to younger generations about navigating both aging and embracing their LGBTQ+ identity? 

Wow - advice is not the word I would use, but perhaps more "things to consider, as you age & embracing your identity", as each person's experience with aging, identity, both, can differ.

Here are some of 'my personal findings', so far. These are my personal words, and mine alone......

1. As we age, regardless of how one identifies, physical/medical/mental health (may) change. Finding a 'supportive' medical practitioner will be helpful.

2. Trusted, loving, support system - whether family, friends, chosen family, colleagues, or a blend. The more you have in your corner, the better (my thoughts)

3.When things get really tough & down, reaching out (albeit, embarrassing at times) has been helpful. Always know, you are not alone :)

@SunShineAlwaysGrateful. Love, Respect, Freedom, Tolerance, Equality and Pride. Just like the sign says!

@SunShineAlwaysGrateful

i unite i am an ally as my unty is LGBTQIA+