Remembering Denise Dorey
We at SDA mourn the loss of longtime member Denise Dorey, and we celebrate her legacy. Denise was an exemplary member of SDA, dedicating her life to sharing information and resources with others, and committing herself to the fight for social justice. Those of us who knew Denise witnessed her infinite compassion for people living in inhumane conditions. It was common to see Denise walking with people experiencing homelessness and taking them to places where they could access resources. She was always quick to take the lead on outreach for our programs, and we will never forget her generosity, one form of which was a legacy gift to SDA in her will.
Denise held a special place in her heart for residents of San Francisco’s SROs. In fact, she lived in one herself, where she experienced significant discrimination. She suffered greatly because it was difficult to understand what was ailing her body, realizing that, within a healthcare system rife with inequity, she had to advocate for her own health and fight to bring about structural changes.
For years, Denise collaborated with SDA on campaigns to improve conditions for SRO residents. She participated in various initiatives aimed at increasing accessibility in these buildings, which typically house many seniors and people with disabilities. She gathered hundreds of surveys from residents, which were instrumental in securing $10 million to launch a project to repair SRO elevators.
As a member of SDA’s Healthcare Action Team, Denise was one of the most active outreach members when we organized wheelchair repair clinics — events that paved the way for what is now the wheelchair repair program managed by ILRCSF. Most participants said they had received the flyer for the event directly from Denise. Another important campaign for Denise focused on mental health. She was an active member of the Mad Mob group, fighting against the expansion of conservatorship in California.
These are just a few of the many activities in which Denise participated. She consistently demonstrated her commitment to fellow seniors and people with disabilities. She appreciated SDA as an organization that not only fights for social justice but also creates space for those most affected by inequality and discrimination to develop their leadership skills.
Throughout her life, Denise maintained a positive attitude that drove her to keep fighting for her convictions. She knew the struggle had to go on, and so she resolved to continue supporting SDA even after her passing. We are so grateful to Denise for the legacy gift that she left to SDA in her will, and we are honored by the trust she placed in us.
Denise was one of those rare people we meet in life who leave us with lessons of love and dedication. Through her steadfastness, she inspired hope that we could achieve justice for all those who are — or have been — oppressed. During her lifetime, we recognized her as a leader capable of connecting with the most marginalized and equipping them with the tools to fight—whether by helping them find shelter and food, or even securing healthcare for their pets.
After grappling with her own struggles and helping others cope with theirs, she left behind a legacy of love for others and an unwavering conviction that the struggle must not stop. Rest in peace, Denise. We will continue to see you in our community victories and in the smiles of those of us who keep fighting to achieve true social justice.