Involved in queer community in later life

In its project for inclusive lesbian ageing Mummolaakso promotes lesbian community as a social resource for older lbtq women. The positive power of a supportive community has been a central idea for the association from the beginning, demonstrated in our lively social activities of 30 years, especially in Helsinki and Southern Finland. The project brings much-needed additional investment in new initiatives focusing on the life situations of aging lesbians and bi/pan women, and on the role community can play in good ageing. The project is financed by EL*C EuroCentralAsian Lesbian* Community and the EU.

During 2024 the project seeks to:

• deepen and expand lesbian-focused discussion about age issues, generational differences and community opportunities in general
• strengthen the capabilities of LBT women in age-related planning and preparing in training events
• improve Mummolaakso’s capabilities in community building

We will launch discussions that highlight the perspectives of different generations and support community building with local LBTQ activists around the country. A dialogue is needed between diverse age groups to shed light on how experiences from older or more recent eras figure in our lives as members of sexual and gender minorities today. To prevent ageism it is essential to understand both what identity work involved in previous decades and the needs and priorities that arise with age. By the same token, better awareness of diverse generational experiences brings depth and perspective to rainbow activism.

We also want to spread the good practices of Mummolaakso activities and drum up support to lesbian activism at prides and other rainbow events around the country. The goal is to hear local lesbian activists’ own stocktaking, to discuss history and ideas. How do we find like-minded company, what kind of activities are there and what new strengths could we find in ourselves in an inspiring circle? How could Mummolaakso support regional communities?

At the bottom is the question how older women who love women could stay involved as interested and valued community contributors, and how those self-respecting, supportive circles, networks, and platforms for participation could be found.

In the trainings we focus on personal perspectives in age matters. Choices made under the conditions of lesbian/bi/trans life can expose women to disadvantage, loneliness or the displacement of one’s own will. Non-normative choices can also give support to active aging. The topic is approached e.g. in the light of statistical research data, physical well-being and end-of-life planning documents.

Project is managed by Virva Hepolampi, MA.