Gen Silent documentary coming to campus

After years of dealing with tension, discrimination and in some cases attacks, gays, lesbians, bisexuals and transgender individuals are facing new challenges as they age: a health care system they believe to be unfair and a growing dependence for care from people who may not approve of their sexuality.

Wright State University organization Allies: Organization for Gay, Lesbian, Bisexual, Transgender, Questioning, and Ally Faculty and Staff will screen the documentary Gen Silent Thursday, Oct. 20, at 7 p.m. in 109 Oelman Hall.

The film–directed and produced by Stu Maddux–shows the discrimination and fears faced by aging gay, lesbian, bisexual and transgender (GLBT) individuals as they navigate the health care system.

Maddux will be on hand for a unique discussion opportunity following the film.

Wright State University organization Allies: Organization for Gay, Lesbian, Bisexual, Transgender, Questioning, and Ally Faculty and Staff will screen the documentary Gen Silent Thursday, Oct. 20, at 7 p.m. in 109 Oelman Hall.

“There’s been a lot of talk about same-sex marriage and don’t-ask-don’t-tell being repealed, but this issue has kind of been under the radar,” said Kitty Friedman, Allies staff co-chair.

Under the radar, but now bubbling to the surface with the aging wave of baby boomers.

“A lot of elders are going back in the closet because they’re not sure what to expect,” said Friedman.

Friedman says that’s what Gen Silent is about. It follows six GLBT individuals and shows how each person has dealt with challenges of the health care system and living in care facilities that may have staff that don’t understand or are prejudiced towards their lifestyle.

Friedman says there’s a lot of denial from people who work in nursing facilities that there are GLBT patients being cared for when the numbers say it’s one out of every 10.

Friedman hopes the solution will lie in the evolution of society and it’s growing acceptance of GLBT people.

“But we will also need more education in terms of their health care needs,” said Friedman. “Who speaks for them will also be important.”

Check out http://stumaddux.com/GEN_SILENT.html to learn more about Gen Silent.

Visit http://www.wright.edu/glbtqa/allies/index.html to learn more about Allies: Organization for Gay, Lesbian, Bisexual, Transgender, Questioning, and Ally Faculty and Staff.