Inclusion and Diversity at Seba Seniors
“I’m not old enough to go to the Seniors Center!”
Sadly, we hear this said too many times. Seba Beach Seniors Center is a community center for all ages. There are no age barriers or limits to attending any of our programs or events. We are adamant that everything we do is for the benefit of the community. We try to be inclusive and diverse in age combined with gender, disability, sexual orientation, race, color, ethnicity, religion, culture, and language.
Now is a great time to talk about “ageism”.
Many human rights organizations refer to ageism as a way of thinking about older persons based on negative attitudes and stereotypes. These assumptions cause people to treat older people in an unequal manner socially and in the provision of services, programs and services.
“To combat ageism it is necessary to raise public awareness about its existence and to dispel common stereotypes and misperceptions about aging. Aging is a highly individual experience and it is not possible to generalize about the skills and abilities of an older person based on age, any more than it is possible to make assumptions about someone based on any other aspect of their identity. (Ontario Human Rights Commission – Fact sheet)”
What does this mean to us in Seba? To me, it means that all citizens of Seba Beach and the surrounding area be encouraged to engage in activities and events that are sponsored by Seba Seniors. These older citizens are extending their hands, their community efforts, and significant experience for the benefit of all. Everyone wins. The community is strong and vibrant and people of all ages are honored and supported. The door is open!
Be well
Cathie D
President
Seba Seniors
