A vibrant garden scene featuring diverse elderly LGBT individuals engaged in joyful conversation, surrounded by blooming flowers and soft sunlight filtering through trees

National Honor Our LGBT Elders Day is a significant observance dedicated to recognizing and celebrating LGBT individuals who have paved the way for greater acceptance, rights, and visibility in society.

Quick Facts

When is it?: May 16 annually
Tagged as: LGBT Recognition Day
What’s the hashtag?: #LGBTEldersDay
When was it founded?: 2015
Who founded it?: Chase Brexton Health Services in Baltimore

History

The day was established to encourage intergenerational connections within the LGBT community and recognize the contributions of older LGBT individuals. It acknowledges those who fought for rights during times when being openly LGBT could result in severe discrimination, job loss, or worse.

Timeline

  • 2015: Established by Chase Brexton Health Services
  • 2016: First official celebration with photography exhibit
  • 2018: Partnership with Single Carrot Theater
  • 2019: Expanded to nationwide recognition
  • 2020: Pivoted to virtual celebration due to pandemic
  • 2024: Flagship event at Meyerhoff Symphony Hall, Baltimore

Dates by Next Year

YearMonth and DateDay
2024May 16Thursday
2025May 16Friday
2026May 16Saturday
2027May 16Sunday
2028May 16Tuesday
2029May 16Wednesday

Observed

The day is celebrated through storytelling events, social media campaigns, and community gatherings. People share personal stories about LGBT elders who have impacted their lives through written or video testimonials.

Fun Facts About LGBT Elders Day

  • Lily Tomlin and Billy Porter have supported the celebration
  • The event went viral in 2020 with over 25,000 social media engagements
  • Celebrations now occur nationwide
  • Includes intergenerational dialogue sessions

Quiz

  1. When is LGBT Elders Day celebrated?
  2. Who established this day?
  3. What year was it founded?

(Answers: May 16; Chase Brexton Health Services; 2015)

FAQs

What is the significance of Honor Our LGBT Elders Day?

This day highlights the contributions of older members of the LGBT community and raises awareness about their unique challenges, promoting respect and support across generations.

How can I participate in Honor Our LGBT Elders Day?

You can participate by attending local events, sharing stories about LGBT elders in your life, or volunteering with organizations that support LGBT seniors.

Importance of LGBT Elders Day

This day recognizes the struggles and achievements of LGBT elders who faced discrimination and fought for equality. It helps bridge generational gaps and ensures their stories and experiences are preserved.

Related

  • Pride Month
  • Coming Out Day
  • Transgender Day of Visibility
  • LGBT History Month
  • Stonewall Anniversary