Written by A. Tai Simpson, MPH, Graduate Teaching Fellow at the Dornsife School of Public Health and Graduate Assistant with the QuIEHR Working Group
On April 30th, the Queer Inclusion, Equity, Health, and Rights (QuIEHR) Working Group hosted the 4th Annual Symposium on Sexual and Gender Minority (SGM) Health, Aging with Pride: Health, Resilience, and Equity for Older Queer Philadelphians. Continuing the focus on Philadelphia, a city rooted in a rich history of LGBTQ+ advocacy and organizing, we sought to highlight the experiences of our elders, many of whom are activists who have been involved in the fight for LGBTQ+ rights and equity since the beginning.
We started the day with a welcome given by Dr. Stephanie Hernandez, who provided context and background for the conversations that would follow. Dr. Hernandez spoke about the challenges faced by older adults, such as higher rates of social isolation, and barriers to affirming healthcare. While these challenges are not unique to LGBTQ+ older adult communities, they can be worsened by heteronormative and cisnormative practices and expectations.
Our first panel, Navigating Health Systems and Care for Aging LGBTQ+ Adults, included panelists Dr. Michael Danielewiscz, Jeff Haskins, and Ed Miller. The conversation highlighted gaps in healthcare practice, such as a lack of inclusive language and biases that negatively affect healthcare experiences. We expanded discussion about the social determinants of health, which also play a role in accessing care and health. Our panelists reflected on the importance of holistic care, addressing not only what happens within medical centers, but the role of policy, social supports, and community in ensuring health and well being.
Our second panel, Social Connection, Mental Health, and Community Resilience, featured panelists Michael Byrne, Gary Hines, and Kyle Macklin. They spoke about mental health, loneliness, and isolation, in addition to how community programs and services can help fill the gaps in the health system. We discussed chosen family and how we can support and care for each other. Finally, we reflected on the importance of gratitude, where one of our panelists, Michael Byrne, gave out stones as a reminder to think of things we’re grateful for.
Following the panels, attendees networked over lunch, building the beginnings of sustained connection and partnership.
The QuIEHR Symposium was an intergenerational event, where community members and allies could build collective knowledge and strength together. We reflected on the past and imagined a more equitable and just future. Our community stands on the shoulders of giants, and we must remember and honor our elders, for they have paved the way for a world where health is not a privilege, but a right.
Missed the Symposium?
View Our Website: www.quiehr.com
Stay in Touch via Email: quiehr@drexel.edu