Parents, Families and Friends of Lesbians and Gays

Parents, Families and Friends of Lesbians and Gays is a non-profit organization that provides support, education, and advocacy for LGBTQ+ individuals, their families, and friends. Founded in 1972 by Jeanne Manford and Adele Starr, the organization has grown to include over 400 chapters across the United States, with a presence in cities such as New York City, Los Angeles, and Chicago. The organization has worked closely with other prominent LGBTQ+ organizations, including the Human Rights Campaign, GLAAD, and the Trevor Project. Notable supporters of the organization include Lady Gaga, Elton John, and Cher, who have all been vocal about their support for the LGBTQ+ community.

● History

The history of Parents, Families and Friends of Lesbians and Gays dates back to 1972, when Jeanne Manford marched in the New York City Pride parade with her gay son, Morty Manford. This event sparked the creation of the organization, which was initially called Parents of Gays. The organization quickly gained momentum, with chapters springing up in cities such as San Francisco, Boston, and Philadelphia. The organization has worked closely with other prominent LGBTQ+ organizations, including the National LGBTQ Task Force, PFLAG National, and the Gay and Lesbian Alliance Against Defamation. Notable figures such as Harvey Milk, Marsha P. Johnson, and Sylvia Rivera have all been involved with the organization, which has also received support from Barack Obama, Joe Biden, and Nancy Pelosi.

● Organization

The organization is structured into local chapters, which provide support and resources for families and friends of LGBTQ+ individuals. The organization also has a national office, located in Washington, D.C., which provides guidance and support for local chapters. The organization is led by a board of directors, which includes notable figures such as Diego Sanchez, Sharon Groves, and Rodney McKenzie. The organization has also partnered with other prominent organizations, including the American Civil Liberties Union, Lambda Legal, and the National Center for Lesbian Rights. The organization has received funding from foundations such as the Gill Foundation, the Evelyn and Walter Haas Jr. Fund, and the David Bohnett Foundation.

● Activities and Support

The organization provides a range of activities and support services for families and friends of LGBTQ+ individuals. These include support groups, educational programs, and advocacy efforts. The organization also provides resources and guidance for LGBTQ+ individuals, including information on coming out, HIV/AIDS, and mental health. The organization has worked closely with other prominent LGBTQ+ organizations, including the It Gets Better Project, the Trevor Project, and GLSEN. Notable events hosted by the organization include the PFLAG National Convention, which has featured speakers such as Janet Mock, Laverne Cox, and Dan Savage. The organization has also partnered with companies such as Apple, Google, and Microsoft to provide support and resources for LGBTQ+ employees.

● International Presence

The organization has an international presence, with chapters and affiliates in countries such as Canada, Australia, and the United Kingdom. The organization has worked closely with international LGBTQ+ organizations, including the International Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Trans and Intersex Association and the Global Equality Fund. The organization has also provided support and resources for LGBTQ+ individuals in countries where they face persecution and discrimination, including Russia, Uganda, and Iran. Notable international supporters of the organization include Justin Trudeau, Malcolm Turnbull, and Theresa May, who have all spoken out in support of LGBTQ+ rights.

● Notable Events and Campaigns

The organization has been involved in a number of notable events and campaigns over the years, including the March on Washington for Lesbian, Gay and Bi Equal Rights and Liberation and the National Equality March. The organization has also launched several high-profile campaigns, including the Straight for Equality campaign, which aims to educate straight allies about LGBTQ+ issues. The organization has worked closely with other prominent LGBTQ+ organizations, including the Human Rights Campaign, GLAAD, and the National LGBTQ Task Force. Notable figures such as Lady Gaga, Elton John, and Cher have all been involved in the organization's campaigns, which have also received support from Barack Obama, Joe Biden, and Nancy Pelosi.

● Impact and Legacy

The organization has had a significant impact on the LGBTQ+ community, providing support and resources for thousands of individuals and families. The organization has also played a key role in advancing LGBTQ+ rights, including the passage of the Matthew Shepard and James Byrd Jr. Hate Crimes Prevention Act and the repeal of Don't Ask, Don't Tell. The organization has received numerous awards and honors for its work, including the Human Rights Campaign's Equality Award and the GLAAD Media Award. Notable figures such as Harvey Milk, Marsha P. Johnson, and Sylvia Rivera have all been recognized for their contributions to the organization, which has also been supported by Apple, Google, and Microsoft. The organization continues to be a leading voice in the LGBTQ+ community, advocating for equality and justice for all LGBTQ+ individuals. Category:LGBTQ+ organizations