The Legacy of Warren and Leon: Pioneers of LGBTQ+ Care and Community
During a time when many were confined to their homes due to the COVID-19 pandemic, Andy Ingall discovered a hidden chapter in his family’s history. Utilizing an ancestry.com account, he uncovered a story that would change his perspective on queer elder care and grief.
A Surprising Discovery
Ingall unearthed records that introduced him to his father’s cousin, Leon, and his partner, Warren. Among the documents was a 2001 Vermont Civil Marriage Certificate, revealing a relationship that spanned decades—a poignant surprise considering Ingall had never heard of Warren.
Through diligent research, Ingall learned that both men were veterans with compelling backgrounds. Warren, born to German immigrants in Kingston, New York, became a crucial operative for the O.S.S. during World War II. Conversely, Leon, a Jewish refugee from Russia and Germany, emigrated to the United States in 1940. Notably, while Warren was honorably discharged, Leon faced a dishonorable discharge due to his sexual orientation.
The Life and Work of Warren and Leon
Warren and Leon’s paths crossed during World War II, leading to a lifelong partnership. Post-war, they channeled their creative energies into Warlé, a boutique on Manhattan’s Upper East Side focused on antiques and art restoration. They retired to Vermont in 1980, where their bond deepened.
However, their later years were marked by significant challenges. As Leon succumbed to Alzheimer’s after 58 years of partnership, Warren found it increasingly difficult to provide the necessary care. Despite their efforts to obtain veterans’ benefits, systemic obstacles arose, prompting caregiving professionals to recommend that the couple enter into a civil union to access vital support.
Challenges in Queer Elder Care
The experiences of Warren and Leon illuminate broader issues facing LGBTQ+ elders. Many within this community confront a heightened risk of social isolation, particularly as they often age without familial support. Studies indicate that elder LGBTQ+ individuals frequently experience discrimination within elder care facilities, leading to inadequate services and a lack of acknowledgment of their chosen families.
Significantly, research shows that patients may delay treatment because of fear or past discrimination. These obstacles are considerably pronounced for Black and Hispanic LGBTQ+ individuals or those living in conservative regions, exacerbating existing inequalities in healthcare access.
Advocating for LGBTQ+ Elders
The story of Warren and Leon has inspired initiatives aimed at amplifying awareness about LGBTQ+ elder care. Ingall’s project, “Warlé,” reinterprets their life story through a 50-minute performance blending music, spoken word, and dance, designed to give voice to queer caregiver grief.
Ingall emphasizes the importance of recognizing family histories, urging audiences to explore their own genealogies for overlooked narratives—such as those of a “spinster” aunt or a “bachelor” uncle. These explorations are critical to fostering understanding and breaking down prejudices around sexual orientation and identity.
How to Support LGBTQ+ Elders
To contribute positively to the lives of aging LGBTQ+ individuals, consider the following actions:
- Engage in conversations with LGBTQ+ elders about their healthcare needs and wishes.
- Research local resources focused on LGBTQ+ aging and caregiving.
- Ask about the policies of senior-care facilities to ensure inclusivity.
- Investigate how institutions address LGBTQ+ discrimination and promote staff training in cultural sensitivity.
- Reach out to local LGBTQ+ organizations for hospice care and bereavement support recommendations.
The Lasting Impact of Warren and Leon
Before his passing, Leon and Warren made provisions to transform their estate into an inclusive LGBTQ+ senior living center, ensuring that their legacy of love and support would continue. Today, Valley Village stands as a testament to their commitment to community care. A plaque within honors their relationship, celebrated by staff and leaders who work to ensure all patients receive compassionate, affirming care.
Ingall reflects on the profound impact that discovering Warren and Leon’s story has had on him. “I’m beyond proud to claim them as family. They’ve changed my life in many meaningful ways, and I’m grateful,” he shares. Their story serves not only as a narrative of love but also as a call to action for greater awareness and compassion in LGBTQ+ elder care.