With June being Pride month, BCCPA celebrates older adults in the 2SLGBTQI+ (Two-Spirit, Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Queer, Intersex, and those who identify as part of sexual and gender diverse communities, who use additional terminologies) community and recognizes both the achievements they have made, and the barriers they continue to face. To understand and support 2SLGBTQI+ older adults, BCCPA encourages seniors living, wellness, and care providers to strengthen their efforts in fostering a safe, welcoming, and inclusive environments for all.

Dignity Seniors Society can help support service providers to provide better culturally appropriate services and spaces for members of the 2LGBTQI+ community. They can help through training, but also provide some resources, including:

• Best practices for seniors care homes
• Creating culturally appropriate services
• Supporting 2SLGBTQI+ service providers

Through our Route65.ca platform, operators can indicate that they are 2SLGBTQI+ inclusive. In addition, BCCPA’s Aging with Pride page also includes many resources that can help organizations strengthen 2SLGBTQI+ inclusivity or help support clients. These include information and referral organizations, resources for operators, as well as resources for 2SLGBTQI+ people and their families.

From all of us at BCCPA, Happy Pride Month!