Mission & History

To promote the health and well-being of gay, lesbian, bisexual and transgender people, their families and friends through:

• SUPPORT – to cope with an adverse society.
• EDUCATION – to enlighten an ill-informed public.
• ADVOCACY – to end discrimination and to secure equal civil rights.

PFLAG is the extended family of the LGBTQ+ community. PFLAG families, friends and allies work together with those who are lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and queer+ to provide opportunities for dialogue about sexual orientation and gender identity. PFLAG acts to create a society that is healthy and respectful of human diversity.

To support parents and caregivers of lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and queer children. We welcome all people – gay, straight, bisexual, transgender and queer – as well as their families and friends. Together, we support each other, educate the broader community and advocate for equality.

Our PFLAG Columbia/Howard County chapter began in January 1995. Interest was expressed by the Unitarian Congregation to have a support group, and UU member Linda Linton along with community activist Colette Roberts put a small meeting notice in local newspaper announcing formation of a support group for parents of gay and lesbian children along with an open invitation to the gay and lesbian community. Over 30 people attended that first meeting, and it was quickly realized that a more formal structure would be needed. We invited the PFLAG regional director to give us ideas on how to become a chapter, and every meeting since average an attendance of 50 people or more. We are a totally all volunteer chapter, and rely on membership dues and donations from monthly meeting attendees.

Leadership: PFLAG believes in the responsibility of leading by example. As leaders, we commit to listening, supporting and responding to build and grow trusting relationships with all. We work together to fulfill our shared vision of full inclusion and legal equality.
Diversity & Inclusion: PFLAG believes that diversity can only be gained through mutual respect and trust. We actively work to build inclusive and respectful relationships with all, through a commitment to listening, learning and engaging with diverse communities.
Community Engagement: PFLAG believes that we are measured by our words and actions. In our communities, we empower ourselves to reach out in coalition and partnership to advocate for change toward full inclusion and legal equality.
Lifelong Learning: PFLAG believes learning is the key to positive change and inclusion. We engage in continual learning for ourselves and provide ongoing learning opportunities to broaden understanding to overcome misinformation and bias.