PFLAG SUPPORTS: Families and Friends

When people discover that a family member or friend is lesbian, gay, bisexual, or transgendered, they may experience many conflicting feelings and thoughts. Knowing that sexual minorities are frequent victims of hate crimes, they may worry about the safety of their loved ones.

Sharing in dialogue with other PFLAG parents and family members, and getting to know some wonderful gay, lesbian, bi-sexual or transgendered persons, is a pathway to understanding, acceptance, and renewed family relationships.

PFLAG supports persons through confidential monthly support group meetings, new-found friends, and referral to counseling when requested.

Education: To enlighten an uninformed public

PFLAG educates through monthly support group meetings. These group meetings are led by knowledgeable people and include informational brochures, a lending library of books and tapes, media appearances, and support for gay youth.

Advocacy: To end discrimination

PFLAG responds to local, state, and national issues with public statements; provision of authoritative educational materials; public appearances and interviews and, occasionally, by providing expert testimony at governmental hearings.

A national rapid response advocacy network keeps local affiliates and members informed of issues calling for immediate response. Telling the personal stories of our families and loved ones offers the most compelling testimony the public can hear.