SPF Demonstration – United Nations International Day of Older Persons 2019

Theme: “The Journey to Age Equality”

To mark the United Nations International Day of Older Persons, the Scottish Pensioners’ Forum (SPF) held its annual demonstration outside the Scottish Parliament on 1st October 2019.

The event was once again strongly supported by SPF affiliates, campaigners, and friends from across Scotland.

This year’s theme focused on the persistent inequalities faced in later life, many of which stem from lifelong accumulative disadvantages including inequalities in education, employment, health, and social issues

The demonstration featured a range of powerful and personal contributions:

Maureen Gardner, SPF Chair, delivered a moving speech reflecting on her own life experiences. She spoke candidly about the challenges she faced growing up, including educational barriers, religious discrimination, and the enduring gender pay gap.

Christine Grahame MSP and Claire Baker MSP addressed the demonstrators, reaffirming their commitment to older people’s rights and social justice.

Tam Wilson, representing the STUC Better Than Zero Campaign, highlighted the importance of fair work and dignity in employment for all age groups.

Tommy Brennan, from North Lanarkshire Trades Council, and Irene Graham, of Unite Scotland Retired Members’ Branch, spoke passionately about the need for continued activism and solidarity on issues affecting older people.

Campaigners from the WASPI movement (Women Against State Pension Inequality) also took part, drawing attention to the injustices faced by women born in the 1950s due to changes in state pension age.

As in previous years, Sandra White MSP, Convenor of the Cross Party Group on Older People, Age and Ageing, submitted a motion to the Scottish Parliament recognising the significance of the day and reaffirming support for older people across Scotland.