Aiming For Acceptance
I want to spread the happy word that the Tri-Cities area now has a large, active chapter of PFLAG – Parents and Friends of Lesbians and Gays. We had our first meeting, and the turnout was overwhelming! I was so inspired by the stories I heard and the compassion and determination displayed by those in attendance, and I am thrilled that this organization exists here, where it is so badly needed.
I feel honored to have the chance to be a part of what I see as the next huge civil rights issue in America – the rights of lesbians and gays to exercise fully the same rights as straight people. But activism is not required; you can come for the support and the fellowship.
We are a supportive, welcoming group. There is no debate here over sexuality or religion; this is a safe haven where you do not have to give up your spirituality or religion in order to be who you are. You will not be condemned or judged; you will be loved and celebrated. And this group is here to stay.
You can find more information on the Web site, pflagtricities.org.
Alex Lee
Elizabethton, Tenn.
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Reader Reactions
As a father of 5 boys I must say you guys are accepted by me.
And as you know there is always a but. So here it is. I can not accept it with a lot of advertizing that promotes teen and youg adult gay activities. We parents kind of hold our breath as our kids grow up and hope their life will lead them down roads where they can assimulate into society easily. I have seen and heard about kids in the local school who claim to be gay. These kids are just that KIDS! To some it is the way things are but to other kids it is like getting a TATOO it is a rebellion thing or a way to get attention. What they fail to realize is the hardships that go along with that decision. If they announce they are gay then get that mixed bag of attention will it push them in a direction later they will regret. The kids are who I am worried about. Like the kids who act out in school today. The system is very very quick to drug them. If they do not learn to deal with their problem now what will happen to them as adult who may not be able to afford the drugs?? Is prison all they have to look forward too?? Kids need breathing room in our society and room to grow into their own person. Not seduced or drugged into what we might choose for them.
Hope I have not offended but kids are watching and listening so please no wild San Franisco type advertizing where exposed. Give them some room, ok.
I have a freind who spent several years thinking he was gay then one day said “DAMN WHAT WAS I THINKING? He now is married and has 4 kids and a great life. All he says he regrets is feeling that was the only way he could get attention when he was young.
Thanks!
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