Easter has no words for her gratitude.

Recently, several of us were made aware that one of our community’s legends needed our help. Easter Armas has spent her life dedicated to supporting others, and today we have the opportunity to assist her at a time when she needs us the most.

Transitioning into retirement can be a challenge, especially when one is relying on government programs, and with a very real concern that Easter is facing great financial

hardship, we are asking you today to donate whatever you can. Needles to say, this is our ask, not hers.

Easter has been a prominent member of Vancouvers LGBTQ2+ community since the early 80s, and 1984/85, she reigned as Emperor of Vancouver - the first woman to hold the title of monarch in the city.

At the hight of the HIV/AIDS pandemic, Easter saw an acquaintance of hers, a brilliant architect who had lost his job because he was HIV-positive, eating from a dumpster. She was devastated. It was then that Easter famously committed that “No one living with AIDS should live with hunger”. In November of 1989, the first of many Easter’s Sundays, monthly dinners held at McLaren House for people living with HIV/AIDS, began. Each meal was lovingly prepared by volunteers, and there was often entertainment.

Easter’s Sundays aimed to diminish the isolation felt by people with AIDS by providing food, community, and comfort. From the determination of one woman and her tireless friends, the Vancouver Meals Society was born. It was the first meal program in Canada to provide free meals for people living with HIV/AIDS. They had five clients.

In 1994, the Vancouver Meals Society was re-named A Loving Spoonful - one of Vancouver’s most impactful non-profits, which continues to serve our community to this day.

Additionally, Easter went on to support other community-building organizations, including the Vancouver Friends for Life Society and the Picasso Cafe. As a legal assistant she was extremely passionate about working with LGBTQ+ refugees, same-sex sponsors and providing support to their loved ones.

We ask you to give what you can, spread the word, offer Easter your best wishes and send as much positive energy her way as you can.

Sincerely,

Joe Average, Joan-E, Tracey Bell & Edgar (Peeka Boo Northe)