Dear Seniors,
Happy Pride Month!
As we step into the month of June, I extend warm greetings to each of you and hope you are embracing the energy, joy, and connection that this season brings. June offers us a meaningful opportunity to celebrate community, honor identity, and continue building a District where all older adults can thrive.
As we celebrate Pride, we recognize and honor the strength, resilience, and contributions of our LGBTQ+ seniors. This month is a time to uplift love, affirm inclusion, and recommit ourselves to ensuring that every older adult in the District feels seen, valued, and respected.
While we reach the midpoint of the year, we continue to follow in Mayor Bowser’s footsteps and “Run Through the Tape.” Together, we have advocated for the needs of DC seniors, hosted meaningful celebrations, and expanded programs and resources that support you in living boldly and independently each day.
As we reflect on Older Americans Month in May, it was truly a month to remember. Guided by the 2026 theme, “Champion Your Health,” we hosted several events focused on wellness, connection, and active aging.
One highlight was our inaugural Roll, Stroll, and Run: Older and Bolder Walk, which brought over 100 seniors together in movement, fellowship, and celebration of aging with strength and pride.
We also extend our gratitude to everyone who attended Mayor Muriel Bowser’s Senior Fest. This annual event is always a fun one to close out Older Americans Month. I know that each of you had an incredible time engaging with our community partners and, most importantly, connecting with one another.
As we move through June, I encourage you to continue what we started by staying active, engaged, and connected through our upcoming events and programs. Your well-being remains at the center of our work, and we remain committed to supporting you every step of the way.
On Sunday, June 14, 2026, at 1:00 p.m., we invite you to the highly anticipated Ms. Senior DC Pageant at the University of the District of Columbia (UDC), Van Ness Campus, Theatre of the Arts. Join us as we celebrate elegance, talent, and leadership, and cheer on contestants competing for the title of Ms. Senior DC 2026. Tickets are available at tinyurl.com/msseniordc26tix or by contacting my office at 202-724-5626.
On Saturday, June 20, we invite you to stand with us as we celebrate our LGBTQ+ seniors at the Capital Pride Parade. We are proud to march alongside Mayor Bowser in our signature Senior Pride Trolley, demonstrating unity, visibility, and unwavering support for inclusivity across the District. This is a meaningful opportunity to honor the contributions and legacy of our LGBTQ+ older adults. If you are interested in riding the trolley, please email us at dacl.communications@dc.gov or call us at 202-724-5626.
During Pride Month, I invite you to engage with your community, learn from one another, and participate in the many events and celebrations taking place across the District. Together, let us remain steadfast in our commitment to equity, dignity, and inclusion for all older adults.
I look forward to seeing each of you this month and throughout the summer.
In Service,
Charon P.W. Hines
Director, Department of Aging and Community Living