Recently, we celebrated the 50th anniversary of Pride in Santa Cruz, a moment to honor how far we’ve come and recognize the work that still lies ahead. I was proud to join in that celebration as one of the early organizers, now among the senior ranks of our movement. Back in those early days, we often talked about the future and what infrastructure would be in place to support LGBTQIA+ people as we aged.
We have made incredible progress: marriage equality, broader societal acceptance, and LGBTQIA+ representation at all levels of government. But even with these strides, aging as an LGBTQIA+ person still brings challenges that are too often overlooked.
In honor of Pride Month, I’m joining the California Department of Aging to uplift the voices of older LGBTQIA+ Californians through a groundbreaking statewide survey and focus groups. These stories offer a powerful look into the hopes and hardships of our community’s elders whose voices must be central as we shape policy for the future.
California’s Master Plan for Aging lays out a strong vision: a state where all older adults can age with dignity. But for too many LGBTQIA+ seniors, that promise feels too distant. I’ve heard directly from residents in long-term care facilities who feel compelled to return to the closet just to feel safe. After a lifetime of fighting for the right to live authentically, no one should have to hide who they are to receive care.
That’s why the Senate Select Committee on Older LGBTQIA+ Californians, which I chair alongside my fellow LGBTQIA+ colleagues in the Senate, is so critical. Through hearings, community listening sessions, and ongoing advocacy, we’re bringing attention to the unique needs of a generation that has lived through criminalization, systemic discrimination, and the trauma of the HIV/AIDS epidemic. These are the trailblazers who paved the way for the rights we now defend – yet many are aging with limited resources, isolation, and ongoing stigma from the systems meant to support them.
Next week, the California Department of Aging will host an Aging with Pride webinar, where they’ll present findings from the recent survey and share the voices behind the data. One sobering statistic: 62% of transgender older adults reported feeling isolated – far higher than the general population of older adults. And yet, 86% of respondents still reported a good or excellent quality of life, a true testament to the resilience of our community.
We must ensure our policies reflect the needs of LGBTQIA+ older Californians. That’s why I authored Senate Bill 258 in 2021, which elevated HIV status in senior services delivery, recognizing that long-term HIV survivors face unique health care needs and deserve culturally competent care.
The state has made meaningful progress, but we know more is needed. We must continue investing in inclusive housing, culturally responsive care, and equity-driven aging policies that allow LGBTQIA+ seniors to age with the safety, support, and pride they deserve.
I invite everyone, from policymakers to caregivers to community advocates, to join the Aging with Pride webinar on Monday, June 16, from 1 to 2:30 p.m. Whether you work in aging services or simply believe in fairness and justice, this conversation is for you. How we care for those who led the fight for equality will define the values we pass on.
We’ve made historic strides in LGBTQIA+ rights – now let’s ensure that progress not only endures, but shines brighter and grows stronger with every passing year.
To sign up for the Aging with Pride webinar, click here.
State Senator John Laird, a gay man, represents District 17, which encompasses Santa Cruz, San Benito, and Monterey counties, as well as the majority of San Luis Obispo County.
