Evita Loca and Sutton Lee Seymour flank the front desk at Inspīr Carnegie Hill
LGBTQ+ Rights are front and center at Inspīr Carnergie Hill. ROBIN DOLCH pays a visit to New York’s premiere senior living care residence, and recounts some of the community’s recent hits, like a hilarious drag queen performance and author Jim Obergefell, the lead plaintiff in the landmark marriage equality case, Obergefell v. Hodges.
With an enviable social calendar, a swanky house car, and numerous fine-dining restaurants, Inspīr Carnegie Hill is the kind of high-rise residence where any New Yorker–not just older adults –would dream of living. But this luxurious community isn’t just about elegant design, top-notch care and world-class amenities; it’s about creating a welcoming environment where everyone feels celebrated.
Inspīr Carnegie Hill proudly holds the Platinum SAGECare credential, an important LGBTQ+ aging cultural competency training program. Inspīr is one of only two luxury senior living communities in New York City to earn this prestigious certification.
“We honor the legacy of milestones like the Stonewall Riots and the Obergefell v. Hodges decision to legalize same-sex marriage. The journey toward inclusivity is ongoing.”
Michelle Rubel, Director of Hospitality at Inspīr
Inspīr’s ethos of inclusivity and excellence is evident daily, from the staff-resident interactions to the cultural and entertainment programming, where prominent LGBTQ+ figures and talent are regularly invited to perform – and inform. We happened to be on property to catch one of their guests recently, namely, the iconic Jim Obergefell, lead plaintiff in the landmark marriage equality case, Obergefell v. Hodges. Obergefell’s visit was more than a simple guest appearance; it was a powerful affirmation of the community’s values. He shared moving stories from his memoir, Love Wins: The Lovers and Lawyers Who Fought the Landmark Case for Marriage Equality, recounting his relationship with his late partner, John Arthur, and their courageous legal battle.
Jim Obergefell, lead plaintiff in the landmark marriage equality case, Obergefell v. Hodges
Another electrifying event was a performance featuring drag queens, Evita Loca and Sutton Lee Seymour. Loca and Seymour brought the spirit of Broadway to residents with “Dragon Roulette,” in which they impersonate divas and gay icons like Judy Garland, Liza Minnelli, and Barbra Streisand, chosen at random by the audience.
One LGBTQ+ resident shared afterwards, “At my age, feeling respected means everything. That’s why I’m grateful to call the inclusive community of Inspīr Carnegie Hill my home. Here, my story is valued. I can age with pride, embraced by a supportive environment that understands our struggles and triumphs.”
Michelle Rubel, Director of Hospitality at Inspīr, knows an inclusivity mission only succeeds with the residents “when the entire organization is aligned in recognizing and advancing LGBTQ+ rights. We honor the legacy of milestones like the Stonewall Riots and the Obergefell v. Hodges decision to legalize same-sex marriage. The journey toward inclusivity is ongoing. Our commitment to initiatives such as SAGEcare Platinum Credentials ensures that we are not just allies, but advocates for every resident’s right to be their true self.”
Inspīr Carnegie Hill’s dedication to creating a thriving community is a testament to understanding that luxury goes beyond opulence. Inspīr ensures that resident’s golden years are lived in dignity, joy, and respect. As Pride Month highlights the progress and ongoing journey of the LGBTQ+ movement, Inspīr Carnegie Hill stands proudly as a supporter, ensuring that every resident can age with pride and live their best life.
For more information, visit www.inspirseniorliving.com.
