“The stories told were life changing and all the attendees shared with me how wonderful and meaningful it was to hear queer elders speak. I jumped in to join discussions at all the tables, and each table was having meaningful conversations involving everyone. It was a beautiful event. I had a blast and left feeling so touched, inspired, and grateful for the older queer generation that has come before me to pave the way for us to live our lives proudly and freely.” – one of the youthful organizers on the 2SLGBTQAI+ Inclusion Team.
“It was a truly wonderful event. The readers did great and the youth were sincerely engaged. Our readings touched on a range of key issues with poignancy and humour that inspired meaningful discussion. It really was excellent. Thanks everyone.” – one of the queer elders in QUIRK-E
“I was invited by my daughter to an event. She didn’t give me much information but off we went. I would never say no to an opportunity to spend time with my daughter and her wife. [The others there] made me feel welcome immediately.
Then it was time for your story and I felt so emotional, felt your pain but I also felt your pride. My daughter from another table looking at me told me take a deep breath, which I did , to stop myself from crying.
We moved to other tables and got to meet more wonderful people.
I just wanted to write this note to contact you and to thank you and the organization.
I loved all the stories, the poems, the improv comedy (I had a good 😂).
Please give QUIRK-E a big thank you from me, is because of the advocacy and bravery of your generation that my daughter is able to live the life that she has now.
[My daughter and her wife] were so happy yesterday, I saw them glowing, they felt protected and can see the road ahead of them as one full of promises and possibilities.
So thank you, thank you, thank you from the bottom of my heart! ❤️.” – one of the allies and supporters.
These impressions by folks attending Intergenerational Chats on Sunday March 1,2026 at Creekside Community Centre speak volumes about the afternoon. We heard stories, both tragic and comic, from ten queer elders and learned many more stories from the brave and beautiful youth who attended. Kudos to QUIRK-E and to the 2SLGBTQIA+ Inclusion Team of the Vancouver Board of Parks and Recreation!
