411 Dunsmuir St. Vancouver, BC V6B 1X4 Phone: (604) 684-8171 Fax: (604) 681-3589

Lesbian, Gay, Transgendered and Bi-sexual Committee

The LGTB committee is currently in the process of recruiting new members as well as a committee chair. Nonetheless, we have had a very active year, with a concerted effort on program development, providing LGTB events, creating and maintaining an inclusive environment at the 411, as well as synchronization of programs and community building.

411 media – News and Views, the Radio Show, the website, and brochures – regularly reflects a commitment to accessibility and inclusivity for ageing and older LGTB people. Project and LGTB event posters also decorate the walls on all three levels of the Centre.
Providing Accessible and Relevant Information and Referral Services
New resources and current events information continue to be added to the 411’s already extensive information and referral (I&R) department. Legislative and policy changes of relevance to LGTB people are also communicated to I&R counselors regularly and in a timely manner.
Events update

Quirk-E – This was an event held in collaboration with Queer Imaging and Writing Collective for Elders (Britannia Community Centre) which was hosted by the LGTB Committee at the 411 Seniors Centre in February. This event featured readings of prose, a play and visual arts displays.

Aging with Pride- This year’s theme was LGTB Elders of Colour. Aging with Pride is our biggest event of the year and this year boasted a turnout of close to 130 people. The event program featured a motivational speaker, Amicus Music Duo as well as Bob Loblaw Queer Comedy Troupe and was emceed by Jaime Lee Hamilton and Reagan D’Angelo renowned trans first nation elder activists. The event was free of charge and open to the community at large.

Pride Parade- We displayed a red convertible, signs depicting key days in history when LGTB rights were approved through legislative change as well as boas, rainbows and a brand new LGTB banner.

Upcoming Events

Valentines Day - A February event put on by the LGTB Committee, stay tuned for more information

Poetry Reading - We will be holding an event featuring an open mic for people to read their poetry, stories and          display their artwork in the spring of next year.  

Stonewall - An event to commemorate Stonewall which will be held in early June of next year, this event    will be educational in nature and will feature information about this pivotal day in LGTB history.

LGTB inclusivity in programs/events/projects

• We are currently cultivating and expanding relationships with community partners in order to work collaboratively and share resources.
• 411 program staff continues to explore opportunities for including LGTB themes, content, and instructors in all 411 events and programs.
• We confer with various programs and projects at the 411 to maintain LGTB inclusively
• We maintain a strong relationship with the information and referrals team in order to maintain LGTB inclusivity and continue to provide I&R services to LGTB seniors.
• For more information on LGTB programs, projects and activities please see our newsletter or contact the Events and Activities Coordinator at: 604.684.8171 ex 233 or via email at: bosullivan@411seniors.bc.ca