On Saturday, February 10, SAGE, the nation’s largest and oldest organization dedicated to improving the lives of LGBTQ+ elders, honored community friend and supporter Larry Hyer with its SAGE Pioneer Award in recognition of his deep commitment to fighting for LGBTQ+ elders.
“I am honored to be recognized by such an outstanding organization,” says Larry Hyer. “SAGE’s work is distinctive and important to protect the growing population of older people in the LGBTQ+ community. I am grateful to bring my attention and energy to assist SAGE in this important work.”
Hyer has been a driving presence in South Florida’s LGBTQ+ community since the mid-1970s. He supports myriad LGBTQ+ and AIDS organizations, including SAVE, the YES institute, Equality Florida, the Aqua Foundation, Communion, and the University of Miami’s HIV and LGBTQ+ programs. Hyer has recently joined the board of OUTshine (Miami’s LGBTQ+ Film Festival) and has helped improve the organization’s operations. SAGE is pleased to acknowledge Hyer’s lifelong contribution to the LGBTQ+ community.
“Celebrating Larry’s consistent and effective contributions to our LGBTQ+ community in South Florida is a great reminder of the strength and resilience of our community,” said SAGE Director of Legacy Planning Jerry Chasen. “Our LGBTQ+ elders stood up to oppression far worse than that which threatens our freedoms today. We all have to make sure those pioneers are honored and acknowledged, and not invisible—celebrated and supported, not neglected. The current initiatives SAGE is undertaking with local partners in Miami reflect that commitment.”
More than 250 friends and supporters, including SAGE board members from across the country, joined the celebration at The Betsy South Beach. For upcoming nationwide SAGE & Friends events, go to sageusa.org/events.
Photo: SAGE & Friends Miami Honoree Larry Hyer (left) receives a proclamation from
Miami Beach City Commissioner Michael Góngora. Photo: Eyes on You Portraits
