Local LGBTQ+ advocacy organization Project Pride SRQ and Senior Friendship Centers are collaborating during Pride Month to present Silver Pride 2026 on June 6 from 12-4 p.m. at Senior Friendship Centers (1888 Brother Geenen Way, Sarasota).
The organizations are dedicating the day to “Honoring Our Past, Celebrating Our Future,” as icons from the LGBTQ+ community are celebrated. The afternoon will feature live music, food available for purchase from Mellow Mushroom, tabling by local vendors and community partners – with information about resources available for senior-related services as well as LGBTQ+ support and advocacy. There will be raffle prizes and giveaways over the course of the afternoon.
Local TV personality Joey Panek will serve as the event host/emcee. Entertainers will include the Westcoast Black Theatre Troupe, Azara Ballet, Diversity Voices, Dingbat Theatre Project, Tap Kats, Dame Lindsay Carlton-Cline, and DJ Janine.
There will also be a panel presentation, titled “Aging Out Loud: LGBTQ+ Life, Legacy, and Belonging Across Generations.” The details regarding panelists and moderator are being finalized at this time.
“For many older adults in the LGBTQ+ community, being seen and feeling safe are particularly important as there was significant discrimination as well as stigma attached to being gay when they were younger and not permitted to be their authentic selves,” said Project Pride SRQ interim executive director Justyn Hunter-Ceruti. “We are thrilled to be able to provide a safe and joyful environment for older adults to celebrate Pride Month among old friends – and new ones.”
Sponsors include Aviva Senior Living, Millennium Physician Group, and WUSF/NPR. Silver Pride 2026 is free and open to the community. Valet and self-parking will be available on-site. Community members are encouraged to learn more and register at ppsrq.org/silverpride2026.
“Senior Friendship Centers is dedicated to supporting the health, dignity, and connection of all older adults in our community,” said Declan Sheehy, Chief Advancement Officer for Senior Friendship Centers. “Events like Silver Pride reflect our solid commitment to ensuring every older adult, regardless of background or identity, has access to a safe, welcoming environment where they can thrive, build relationships, and feel a true sense of belonging.”
For more about Project Pride SRQ, visit ppsrq.org. For more about Senior Friendship Centers, visit friendshipcenters.org.
Submitted by Sharon Kunkel
This article originally appeared on Sarasota Herald-Tribune: How will Silver Pride 2026 celebrate LGBTQ+ seniors in Sarasota?
Reporting by Special to the Herald-Tribune, Sarasota Herald-Tribune / Sarasota Herald-Tribune
USA TODAY Network via Reuters Connect
