As an inclusive older people’s movement, COTA (Council on the Ageing) SA, supports the lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and intersex plus community through its Rainbow Hub program of year-round services, events and activities.
COTA SA’s three Feast Festival events aim to provide a safe and inclusive space for older LGBTI people to connect with one another, have meaningful conversations about end-of-life choices, and pay tribute to community members who have died.
COTA SA’s Rainbow Hub Compassion Cafe is a unique chance to share thoughts and experiences around end of life choices. Tomorrow’s event will foster an open discussion about end-of-life in a safe space and offer information around rights and choices.
In Loving Remembrance: A LGBTI+ Community Memorial Event provides a rare opportunity for community members to publicly remember, honour and celebrate those who have died. This heartfelt, secular session will allow attendees to come together in a safe and affirming environment to share stories, and look to the future with courage and hope, during an afternoon of healing, support, music and celebration.
Over the weekend, COTA SA volunteers joined Feast Festival’s iconic and hero event, Picnic in the Park. More than 3000 people attended this all-ages event which offered a range of entertainment, food, and stallholders. At COTA SA’s stall, friendly volunteers offered information on upcoming events and resources for ageing well.
COTA SA Rainbow Hub Officer, Jackie Wurm, said, “We’re pleased to join the Feast Festival program with meaningful and supportive events which will help older South Australians to learn about their end-of-life care choices in an inspiring inter-generational conversation.”
“In Loving Remembrance will be a chance to share stories, heal and reflect on those who we have lost, as well as years lost in the closet. I’m glad we’ll connect with older LGBTI community and offer a safe and inclusive space,” said Jackie.
COTA SA Chief Executive, Miranda Starke, is proud of the organisation’s commitment to representing the full diversity of older South Australians.
“COTA SA’s Rainbow Hub plays an important role in empowering LGBTI older South Australians to be seen, heard and celebrated. Our Rainbow Hub LGBTI elders provide valued advice and insights into their own experiences which shape COTA SA’s policy, advocacy, and programs. I encourage older LGBTI people and their allies to connect with our Rainbow Hub at Feast Festival and to know that COTA SA celebrates and creates a safe place for LGBTI older people all year round,” Miranda said.
Now in its 26th year, Feast is an open-access festival that showcases emerging and established artists from both local and interstate LGBTQIA+ communities from November 1-19. COTA SA’s Rainbow Hub has participated in Feast each year since 2018.
COTA SA’s Feast Festival’s events
- Rainbow Hub Compassion Cafe – 5-7pm on Wednesday 8th of November, SAMESH, 57 Hyde Street, Adelaide
- In Loving Remembrance: A LGBTI+ Community Memorial Event – 2-4PM on Saturday 11th of November, Church of the Trinity, 318 Goodwood Rd, Clarence Park
- Rainbow Hub Monthly Lunch for 50+ – 12-1.30pm on Thursday 16th of November, Treasury 1860, 144 King William St, Adelaide
