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We are Building a Bridge for LGBT families.
See our video here.

"I have faith that the future offers a more enlightened and just Virginia. Most younger Virginians have no prejudice – no bias – no fear of those who are different. They recognize that there is no threat to the institution of marriage from loving, committed gay and lesbian couples who will one day enjoy equality under the law."

Remarks by Virginia State Delegate Adam P. Ebbin against the passage of HJ 586 (Constitutional Amendment; Marriage)

Welcome to Metro DC PFLAG, and thank you for visiting our website.

There is so much talk about gay, lesbian, bisexual and transgendered issues these days that we risk overlooking matters closer to home...

The value of relationships, for example, and the importance of giving our families and our friends the love and understanding they deserve.

For most of us, family is the one place we can be ourselves.

But the image of the happy family providing unconditional sanctuary for all its members may be far from the real picture.

Too many families find themselves needlessly divided by walls of silence and misunderstanding.

When, because of their sexual orientation or gender identity, you reject a child or deny a friend—everyone loses.

Life is diminished. The world is a smaller, sadder place.

But we can help. We can break the silence. We can put the joy back.

We at PFLAG are the parents, families and friends who help keep families and friends together.

If someone you love is gay, we are the ones who can help you hold on to that love. And on to their love, too.

Through the good times and through the not so good.

If you are trying to stay close to a gay, lesbian, bisexual or transgendered person:

Talk about it. In confidence. Come to a support group. Be welcomed by parents, families and friends who have dealt with - or are dealing with - the same issues. Surprise yourself by how much better you feel, sharing with people who really understand.

Talk with a helpline volunteer. These moms and dads know what you're feeling because they've struggled with the same uncertainty, confusion, and bewilderment. Speaking with them can really help. Call 301-439-FLAG.

Take comfort from the Stories section of our website or Bob Bernstein's Straight Parents, Gay Children: Keeping Families Together. (See an excerpt from the book.)

We want you to know that:

Being gay, lesbian, bisexual or transgendered is not an illness. It is not a mental disorder. It is not a dishonor. It is not dangerous. Gay, lesbian, bisexual and transgendered people, like other people, lead happy, healthy, productive, loving lives.

Myth, prejudice and stereotype may challenge your readiness to accept a situation. Understanding will make it easier to keep the relationship.

Feelings will change—if you let them. You may change, too. Into a better, stronger, happier person. As others who've been through this can tell you. Isn't the relationship worth it!?

If a religious belief is making it harder for you to be accepting, we can put you in touch with a cleric of your own faith, who can offer you a different, more inclusive message.

If you are gay, lesbian, bisexual or transgendered:

Coming out is one of the most significant things you can do for your own emotional well-being, and a big step toward living a life free of fear.

Our support groups and helpline are here for you, too! Enjoy a warm welcome, or call our helpline, 301-439-FLAG.

If you are a teacher:

You need to create safe learning environments for your students, free from harassment, bullying, name-calling and other threatening behaviors. We offer training to schools. Let us show you how important a resource you can be.

If you want to help us promote equality and acceptance, you can:

Donate your time, your money, or both. We have volunteer opportunities begging to be filled. Year-round.

Your money will help us spread the word. Our mission is to keep families together. Metro DC PFLAG family values honor education, understanding, acceptance, support and, above all else, love.

If you've accepted your loved one, but have yet to tell your family or friends:

Now is the time! Almost everyone you know knows someone who is gay. It is important to start talking about it. Silence enables discrimination.

Do's and Don'ts

Do: Remember that your loved one is the same person he or she was before you knew this part of their identity. They have not changed! Keep your relationship going.

Do: Get support working through the issues you have—we have people who have experiences with these same issues—don't dump them on your family member.

Do: Be gentle and kind with your loved one...and with yourself.

Do: Open yourself up to change.

Don't: Demand that your gay, lesbian, bisexual or transgendered family member change. People do not choose to be gay or straight; it is who they are.

Don't: Blame your family member, attack them, or kick them out of your home.

Don't: Do or say anything that you will feel sorry about later.

What is this all about?

Sexual orientation has become the political issue. But it is also a family issue. Relationships are precious. Keep your family and friends close to you, where they belong. Family is too important to abandon, and real friends too few to give up just because of sexual orientation.