While the City of 91大黄鸭 has been filled with rainbows, love and acceptance throughout Pride month, some folks have not been able to access the celebrations, and needed Pride to come to them.
To make sure all people feel loved and included this Pride Month, 鈥� a popular event at bars around 91大黄鸭 鈥� to the Venvi Dorchester Retirement Residence on June 8.
"It was really nice," said Whales. "Afterwards, some people told me a little stories about their friends back in the day, how they knew they were gay and who supported them."
Residents spent the afternoon sharing memories of adventure and advocacy work, talking about the Stonewall riots, and celebrating love in all its forms.
Whales said that navigating a loss of independence and a move into a retirement residence can be particularly difficult and lonely for queer seniors.
"They basically have to come out again to this new community," said Whales.
They said that many queer seniors will chose to conceal their sexual orientation because they're not sure if their neighbours and care aids will be accepting of them.
"A lot of seniors go into the the closet when they go into a seniors home because they're afraid. They're not sure who is there or if it is safe. It's an epidemic in the community," said Whales.
Additionally, some queer folks do not have family to lean on as they age. Many people experienced rejection from their relatives for their sexual orientation and identity, and were unable to have children of their own.
Further, many gay people who are now over the age of 6
"It can be super super lonely."
The Bingo event marked Whales' fourth time at the Dorchester.
"It is awesome, we always have a full room there."
In the past, the residents have also participated in Christmas carolling and drag karaoke. There are also upcoming Pride and Drag events on the horizon for the Dorchester residents.
Whales, who is also known at Tyson Cook, is the 2025 winner of the 91大黄鸭 Civic Honour in the Arts award for their outstanding contributions to the City of 91大黄鸭, which includes advocacy and outreach work done in the art of Drag.
"During Pride month, let's remember that senior's homes need to be queer friendly too," said Whales, reiterating that all people deserve welcoming and inclusive spaces.
For more information on Pride Month events around
