SAGE Remains Vigilant in Protecting Vital Services for LGBTQ+ Elders
NEW YORK, NY – In a landmark victory, SAGE, the world’s largest and oldest organization dedicated to improving the lives of LGBTQ+ older people, and its legal partner, Democracy Forward, have successfully challenged and reversed a draconian federal funding freeze announced by the Trump administration earlier this week. SAGE, along with the National Council of Nonprofits, the American Public Health Association, and Main Street Alliance, successfully challenged the federal funding freeze, leading the White House to rescind its order, restoring the status quo. As long as it holds, this important victory will safeguard essential healthcare, housing, and community services relied upon by millions.
The funding freeze, ordered via a memo from the Office of Management and Budget (OMB), threatened to abruptly halt federal financial assistance for a wide range of vital services, including essential programs provided to older LGBTQ+ people by SAGE. This action sparked widespread concern and confusion, placing essential programs and the well-being of many communities at risk.
“This is a victory for millions of older Americans—especially LGBTQ+ elders—who depend on these vital programs to thrive,” said Michael Adams, CEO of SAGE. “While our swift legal action forced the administration to back down, we must remain vigilant for future threats. This is a win for our community, but given the daily anti-LGBTQ rhetoric from those in power, we expect many more battles to come.”
The memo is available here.
About SAGE:
At SAGE, we envision a world where LGBTQ+ elders are valued, have limitless opportunities, and thrive. Since 1978, we have led the way in advocating for policies, services, and resources that empower LGBTQ+ elders to live openly and authentically. Our dedicated team members work nationally and globally to protect our rights, build health and longevity, and preserve the vibrancy of our community as we age. Each one of us has a place to create a bright and vibrant future for the LGBTQ+ community as each one of us lights the way for the next generation to follow. Learn more at sageusa.org.
