Support: To cope with an adverse society
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: Society and Ourselves
Knowledge that is both scientifically and psychologically sound is absolutely vital to understanding and accepting a gay or lesbian family member.
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 ADVOCATES: Equal Rights for All
As loving parents, family members, and friends, we work to secure equal civil rights for all people. Especially for gay, lesbian, bisexual, and transgendered loved ones.
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.
Parents, Familes and Friends of Lesbians and Gays: Skagit County Chapter
Statement of Mission and Goals