Gray Panthers
From Life Done Right SeniorWiki
Gray Panthers is an intergenerational, multi-issue organization working to create a society that puts the needs of people over profit, responsibility over power and democracy over institutions. The Panthers' vision is "create a humane society that puts the needs of people over profits, responsibility over power, and democracy over institutions."
In August of 1970, Maggie Kuhn convened a group of five friends, all of whom were retiring from national religious and social work organizations. This first "Network" of friends gathered to look at the common problems faced by retirees — loss of income, loss of contact with associates and loss of one of our society's most distinguishing social roles, one's job. They also discovered a new kind of freedom in their retirement — the freedom to speak personally and passionately about what they believed in, such as their collective opposition to the Vietnam War.
Gathering with college student opposed to the War, this new group, self-named the Consultation of Older and Younger Adults for Social Change met to discuss their common beliefs and values in Philadelphia. One year later more than 100 people joined their Consultation.
Gray Panthers' Values:
- Honoring Maturity: The concept of aging takes into account an individuals growth during their entire life span, from birth to death in personal development, social involvement, and self fulfillment.
- Unifying the Generations: Recognition that generations are formed by different histories and cultures, but a common respect holds them together.
- Active Engagement: Civic participation and responsibility are fundamental to achieving goals of social and economic justice.
- Participatory Democracy: The Gray Panthers belongs to its members. The members define the organization's values, purpose, and the issues in which we place collective energy.
Contact Information
Gray Panthers National Office
1612 K Street, NW
Suite 300
Washington, DC 20006
Telephone: 800-280-5362 or 202-737-6637
Fax: 202-737-1160
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