News
CADER Launches Free Course to Prevent Discrimination Based on Sexual Orientation & Gender Identity & Expression
In a long-standing relationship with the Massachusetts Executive Office of Elder Affairs (EOEA), the Center for Aging & Disability Education & Research (CADER) at BUSSW offers a free online course: “Prevention and Elimination of Discrimination Based on Sexual Orientation and Gender Identity and Expression.”
About the Course
In order to prevent and eliminate discrimination based on sexual orientation, gender identity, and gender expression, Massachusetts legislation mandated that new curriculum and training be developed and implemented to improve medical access for these underrepresented groups.
This course’s content was created by the LGBT Aging Project at the Fenway Institute. As leaders in engaging with mainstream elder care providers to prevent the mistreatment of lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender elders, their guidance and support in creating this course was invaluable. The course will be hosted and managed by CADER.
“CADER is pleased to collaborate with EOEA in their commitment to ensure that all individuals receiving services are treated with respect and compassion regardless of race, creed, gender identity, or whom they love,” says Research Assistant Professor Bronwyn Keefe, Director of CADER and The Network for Professional Education.
There are 4 sections to the course:
- Sexual orientation and gender identity
- LGBT history, stigma, and resiliency
- Best practices in providing services
- Next steps
Who Is Eligible to Take this Course?
Per Massachusetts state law, all current employees whose employers fit one or more of the following are required to take this course:
- Providers who contract with, receive funding from, or are certified by EOEA
- Aging Service Action Points (ASAPs)
- MassHealth Office of Long-Term Services and Supports (OLTSS)
In addition, new employees from these organizations must complete this training course within 12 months of hire.
Since it was launched, over 700 learners have registered for the course. Registration and course access are available at the CADER-EOEA web portal for all eligible providers.