Jane Haskell on LGBTQ Elder Advocacy and Community Support
Episode Overview
Jane shares her transition from working with younger LGBTQ individuals to supporting elders She discusses the impact of isolation and loneliness, especially during lockdowns, on older LGBTQ adults Jane highlights the housing insecurity faced by LGBTQ elders and the need for specific care facilities Her advocacy work includes creating LGBTQ+ friendly ALFs and collaborating with organizations for inclusive policies Jane's commitment to improving the lives of LGBTQ elders is evident in her initiatives and collaborations
Mutual aid isn't just money, but it's everything, right? And I think I see that really shining through when we're talking about older adults and housing security, whether that be inside or outside of a care facility.
How does one transition from working with young LGBTQ individuals to advocating for older LGBTQ adults? In this episode of 'The Umbrella Hour', hosts Dr. An Goldbauer and Zander Keig chat with Jane Haskell, a seasoned advocate at EPIC, part of Empath Health in St. Petersburg, Florida. Jane's journey in LGBTQ advocacy is nothing short of inspiring.
She dives into her work with the Transgender Emergency Fund of Massachusetts, focusing on housing advocacy and the unique challenges faced by older LGBTQ adults. From tackling housing insecurity to addressing the profound impacts of isolation and loneliness, especially during COVID-19 lockdowns, Jane sheds light on the pressing issues that this community faces.
She passionately discusses the importance of creating inclusive and supportive environments for LGBTQ elders, sharing insights on initiatives like the Friendly Caller program and the need for LGBTQ+ friendly Assisted Living Facilities (ALFs). Her collaborations with organizations such as the Human Rights Campaign and SAGE underscore her commitment to fostering inclusive policies and support systems. If you're interested in understanding the intricacies of LGBTQ elder advocacy and the importance of community support, this episode is a must-listen.