New Mexico Aging Services
Celebrations in Focus
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AGING WITH PRIDE What is Pride? Each June, we recognize the resilience and ongoing contributions of the Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Queer, and Two-Spirit (LGBTQ2S+) community during Pride Month. Pride began in remembrance of the 1969 uprising at the Stonewall Inn in New York City where LGBTQ2S+ patrons, led by transgender women of color, resisted a police raid. Today, Pride remains rooted in its history of protest, as well as a celebration of identity, visibility and community. If you are interested in attending a Pride event, here are some upcoming in New Mexico: Santa Fe Pride - June 27
Taos Pride - August 8
Silver City Pride - September 12
Las Cruces Pride on the Plaza- October 3
Q & A with Havens Levitt
As part of LGBTQ+ Pride Month, we sat down with Havens Levitt (she/her), 73 years old, retired educator, community advocate, ambassador for the Older Rainbow Community of Albuquerque (ORCA), and longtime champion for LGBTQ+ older adults in New Mexico. In this conversation, she shares her perspective on the unique experiences of aging for LGBTQ+ adults, the importance of chosen family, and what gives her hope for the future.
Q: What are some of the unique experiences that shape aging for LGBTQ+ older adults? Havens Levitt (HL) : Many LGBTQ+ older adults came of age during a time when being queer wasn’t openly discussed and was often met with discrimination or outright hostility. Those experiences don’t simply disappear with age. Many older adults carry those memories of rejection, stigma or fear. That fear of experiencing rejection or violence can lead to isolation. Research consistently shows that LGBTQ+ older adults experience higher rates of social isolation, which makes sense. If you don’t feel safe being open about who you are, it’s harder to build meaningful connections. That can create a sense of loneliness even if you’re surrounded by other people. LGBTQ+ older adults are also more likely to live alone and not have children, which can mean fewer traditional support systems as they age. Q: What barriers still exist when it comes to housing, healthcare, and long-term care for LGBTQ+ older adults? HL: One of the biggest concerns is whether an environment will truly be welcoming and affirming. For many LGBTQ+ older adults, entering long-term care or seeking housing can feel frightening because they are unsure how they’ll be treated or whether they’ll be able to be honest about who they are. Concerns about safety and acceptance can affect where people choose to live and whether they feel comfortable accessing services. In healthcare contexts, some LGBTQ+ people choose not to disclose their identity because of similar worries. When individuals are unable to be honest with their providers, that can contribute to…