Parents, Families and Friends of Lesbians and Gays (PFLAG)

Overview

Parents, Families and Friends of Lesbians and Gays, commonly known as PFLAG, is a U.S. nonprofit organization dedicated to promoting the health and well-being of lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender (LGBT) individuals, their families, and friends through support, education, and advocacy.

History

PFLAG was founded in 1973 in New York City. The organization's inception was sparked by Jeanne Manford's public support for her gay son, Morty Manford, amidst a violent protest. This public display of parental love and support inspired other parents to follow suit, leading to the formation of the first PFLAG meeting on March 11, 1973, at the Metropolitan-Duane Methodist Church in Greenwich Village[1][2].

Throughout the 1970s and early 1980s, local PFLAG chapters began to form across the United States. In 1982, the national organization was formally incorporated in California and granted non-profit status[1][2]. PFLAG has since become a leading voice in the LGBTQ civil rights movement.

Mission and Activities

PFLAG's mission is to promote the health and well-being of LGBTQ individuals, their families, and friends. The organization achieves this through various initiatives:

• Support Groups: PFLAG provides a network of support groups for LGBTQ individuals and their families, offering safe spaces for sharing experiences and finding community[3].

• Education: PFLAG offers educational resources to help families, allies, and the broader public understand and support LGBTQ issues. This includes guides for straight allies and those of faith[1][3].

• Advocacy: PFLAG actively advocates for LGBTQ rights and participates in national and local campaigns to advance civil rights and equality[2][5].

Subsidiaries and Programs

In addition to its core activities, PFLAG has developed specialized programs and groups over the years. These include the Straight for Equality program, which empowers allies without family connections to the LGBTQ community, and the establishment of groups for African American and Asian American parents[1][2].

Impact

PFLAG has played a crucial role in the LGBTQ civil rights movement by leveraging the influence of families and allies to advocate for LGBTQ rights. With hundreds of chapters and thousands of members across the United States, PFLAG is the largest organization of its kind, fostering a culture of acceptance and inclusivity[5].

The local chapter, PFLAG Oklahoma City, reflects this broader mission by providing local support, education, and advocacy to the LGBTQ community and their families[3].

References

References are not included in this format but can be consulted through the original sources mentioned.