Speakers’ Series #3

Queer Elders

Gender Equality Coalition of Ontario is excited to present the third Speaker's Series on Wednesday, December 3. This month’s topic is "Queer Elders" and features 3 speakers. This is a free, in-person event at the CASO Station in St Thomas. Don’t miss out on some unique insight.

Location:

CASO Station - 750 Talbot Street, St Thomas, ON

Speaker Line-up:

• Neil Hubert Currently I am a Board member at the St Thomas Elgin Public Art Centre and an enthusiastic volunteer at Harvest Hands. I am on the Executive and Planning Committees for Elgin County Pride and Queer Prom.

  I am a participant in the Oxford Elgin Rainbow Researches, Community Advisory Group.

  I work for an organization of approximately 70 employees. Myself and one recently hired colleague are the only two Out employees.

  Through my employment, I am the secretary for a Provincial Child Welfare 2SLGBTQIA+ committee, and provide support for a monthly Queer Youth group and various other queer initiatives.

• Hallie Abram I am currently in the role of Office Administation for the N'Amernind Friendship Centre. I have been working and volunteering in the London Urban Community for over 25 years. Being a helper is a way of life. Everything I put my hand to comes from my heart. I am blessed.

• Sister Patricia Derouin Sister Patricia Derouin is a fierce elder in the 2SLGBTQIA+ community who has been dedicated to activism, connect and protection of her community. A 72 year young old fashioned/old school butch lesbian currently living in the London ON region.

  Her activism spans generations from rallies on Parliament Hill, marches on Elgin St. and Toronto. In 2023, she was recognized Ken Sadler Pride Award for her exceptional work in improving the lives of London's Queer and Two-Spirit communities. As well, she was the Grand Marshall of the 2025 London Pride Festival Parade. Most recently known as the founder of Drag Storytime Guardians and Guardians in Action, a province wide network of 1000 members who work tirelessly providing support and protection to the Queer community showing up on her signature battle vest covered in patches that tell a story of Queer history.

• Devon Church (Moderator) Devon has dedicated his life to helping others, with the last two decades strongly focused on advocating for vulnerable populations, specifically 2SLGBTQIA+ rights.

  Originally focused on specializing in behavioural dementias and palliative care, Devon learned quickly how to build honest and trusting therapeutic nurse client relationships. His compassion, kindness and humour has continued to be his lighthouse throughout his nursing career.

  Devon is a member of the Canadian Professional Association for Transgender Health (CPATH) and the Chair of Elgin County Pride. Devon also works with local agencies and health care providers, advancing local knowledge on gender-affirming care.