Jim Woodward of Temecula is organizing a local chapter of PFLAG --
Parents, Families and Friends of Lesbians, Gay, Bisexual and
Transgendered Persons.
You don't have to be a parent or a family member to participate -- you
can be a friend, too. The whole purpose is to provide an environment
in which our young people are treated with respect and dignity no
matter who they are.
"I am a 53 year-old gay man who grew up in terrified silence," Jim
wrote in a letter about the new group. "Growing up in fear that
disclosure of your sexual orientation may result in your classmates
killing you is not healthy."
No, it's not. We, the community, have a responsibility to keep our
young people safe as they discover who they are. The Temecula valley
is overdue for a group like this. Together we can fight back hatred
and show love and acceptance.
If you want to be part of the PFLAG chapter, there is an organizing
meeting in Temecula on Sunday, May 16 at 3:00 p.m.. For directions and
more information, please call Jim Woodward at (909) 693-4852.
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