Building understanding through education, dialogue, and community connection.
Recently, the White Rock Pride Society had the opportunity to present Behind the Rainbow – What Stereotypes Hide? to the Semiahmoo Seniors Planning Table at the White Rock Library. The presentation explored the realities, challenges, and resilience of the 2SLGBTQIA+ community, with a particular focus on older adults, systemic barriers, safety, inclusion, and opportunities for meaningful allyship.
Presented by a White Rock Pride board member and volunteer, the session highlighted important topics including:
- Gender identity
- Pronouns
- Social isolation
- Discrimination
- Health care barriers
- Same-sex violence
- Impact of stigma on mental health and well-being.
The presentation also emphasized the importance of creating safe, welcoming, and inclusive spaces within our communities and services.
The audience consisted of approximately 25 citizens and service providers from across the Peninsula. The content was received enthusiastically, generating numerous thoughtful questions and meaningful discussions throughout the session. Originally planned as a 20-minute presentation, the level of engagement extended the conversation to nearly an hour.
The strong participation and dialogue demonstrated a genuine interest in learning more about the lived experiences of 2SLGBTQIA+ individuals and how communities can better support inclusion, safety, dignity, and connection for all.
If your group is interested in educational opportunities, collaboration or enhanced community involvement, please contact us at admin@whiterockpride.com.
About the Semiahmoo Seniors Planning Table
The Semiahmoo Seniors Planning Table brings together community members, self-advocates, government representatives, businesses, and non-profit organizations who are committed to supporting the wellbeing, inclusion, and quality of life of older adults in White Rock and South Surrey.
Meeting monthly, the group collaborates to identify emerging issues, share resources, and develop initiatives that help create a more age-friendly community. Areas of focus include healthy aging, social connection, housing, transportation, health care access, volunteerism, preventing isolation, and promoting inclusion across generations.
Guided by a vision of an age-friendly and inclusive community where everyone thrives, the Semiahmoo Seniors Planning Table works to ensure older adults are healthy, valued, engaged, and able to experience life to its fullest potential.
For more information, visit the Semiahmoo Seniors Planning Table website: https://semiahmooseniors.com/