PFLAG meetings offer opportunities for dialogue about sexual orientation.Whether you long suspected something or were completely surprised, finding out that someone you love is gay, lesbian, bisexual, or transgender can be confusing.
Every family is different and every situation is unique. You may have found out by chance, been told face-to-face, or received a phone call or letter. You child may be a teenager or an adult, self-accepting or upset with his/her sexual orientation. You may be ready to listen or find yourself drawing back.
First all, however, there are some common underlying questions. These questions and many more are discussed and answered at our meetings. Do not be impatient with yourself. Educating yourself and accepting your loved ones sexual orientation takes time. People at our meetings have gone or are going through the same feelings that you are having.
In a variety of ways, PFLAG Columbus advocates on behalf of legislation and public policy that will ensure equal rights for their gay, lesbian, bisexual, and transgender loved ones. Sharing personal stories is especially effective when PFLAG families and friends testify and lobby. They provide the personal experiences and perspective that can ground public policy regarding gay, lesbian, bisexual, transgender issues in reality.
Our meetings are informal. We share our experiences, feelings, and support. Various people from all walks of life are invited as guest speakers. PFLAG maintains a policy of confidentiality. We respect the privacy of the people who attend and what is shared. We learn how to free ourselves of confusion, denial, blame, guilt, shame, and questioning. Ultimately, we grow to understand and accept our children and friends so that we become advocates for the equality and dignity of all human beings.