History of Richmond PFLAG

PFLAG began in Richmond in 1993 when a mother learned her daughter was lesbian. She found no local support, so after researching and educating herself she organized Richmond's PFLAG chapter.

Throughout the years PFLAG has grown from a group of 3-5 people to over 40. However, the numbers of folks who come to our meetings varies, according to peoples' needs. Some plan to come for one meeting, just to get some information, and stay for years, becoming active in various ways. Others do come for information and support and feel no need to return. Still others visit occasionally, as their understanding and needs change.

We hope that you will visit one of our meetings, whether you are a parent, family member, or friend of a GLBT (gay, lesbian, bisexual or transgendered) person, or a GLBT person yourself. I believe you will find a group of caring people who understand where you're coming from, and perhaps, where you're trying to get to in your life.

History of our National Organization:

In 1972, Morton Manford was physically attacked at a gay rights protest demonstration in New York. Morty's parents, Jeanne and Jules Manford, saw the attack on a local newscast and witnessed the police's failure to intervene. Their outrage turned them into activists.
The idea for PFLAG began in 1972 when Jeanne Manford marched with her gay son in New York's Pride Day parade. After many gay and lesbian people ran up to Jeanne during the parade and begged her to talk to their parents, she decided to begin a support group. The first formal meeting took place in March 1973 at a local church. Approximately 20 people attended.
In the next years, through word of mouth and in response to community need, similar groups sprang up around the country, offering "safe havens" and mutual support for parents with gay and lesbian children. Following the 1979 National March for Gay and Lesbian Rights, representatives from these groups met for the first time in Washington, D.C. In 1981, members decided to launch a national organization. The first PFLAG office was established in Los Angeles under founding president Adele Starr.
In 1982, the Federation of Parents and Friends of Lesbians and Gays, Inc., then representing some 20 groups, was incorporated in California and granted non-profit, tax-exempt status. In 1987, PFLAG re-located to Denver, under President Ellinor Lewallen. In 1990, following a period of significant growth, PFLAG employed an Executive Director, expanded its staff, and consolidated operations in Washington, D.C. In 1993, the word "Families" was added to the name. (History taken from the PFLAG National Web Site)

How can I get involved in PFLAG?

Everyone who shares PFLAG's vision is welcome to join us in our work. Your financial support makes PFLAG's work possible. As a chapter member you can also become engaged in the vital work of providing support, education and advocacy in your community. Even if you're not sure that you need PFLAG, remember that PFLAG NEEDS YOU! (excerpt from PFLAG National Web Site)

Why become a chapter member instead of a national PFLAG member?

Becoming a member of Richmond PFLAG means that the majority of your membership dues stay here in RIchmond where they can help your community. And you still get membership with National PFLAG so you lose nothing by becoming a local member and you gain more of a say in what your money is used for by participating in your local chapter.

Become a Member!

See our CONTACT page for information about where to come to meetings and how to join if you wish. Dues are $30 for individuals and $45 for couples.