General Answers

If you are just starting to learn about what it means to be lesbian, gay, bisexual, or transgender - or a family member or friend of someone who is -  you may have hundreds of questions to ask.  One of the things PFLAG Portland has learned in its 25 years that everyone’s situation is different, and the best way to get answers tailored to your needs is to talk to someone at PFLAG Portland.  There are several ways to do this:

1. -our message line
   

2. -e-mail
   

3. -attending meetings and participating in support group sessions
   

A good place to start for general information is the PFLAG National website. The “Get Support” link will lead you to information directed towards LGBT persons, family, and friends; bring you up to speed on terminology; answer some of the most frequently asked questions about the coming out process; and guide you in taking action to support equality in society.

As this website grows, we’ll post links and information on these and other topics specific to the Portland Metro area.  Our resources page has a good selection of the hundreds of organizations and individuals serving the LGBT community and partnering with PFLAG Portland.

Communities of Color

It’s different for LGBT persons in communities of color.  PFLAG Portland works closely with community-based organizations; visit our resources page. Check out the PFLAG Portland Black chapter, a chapter started in 2009 by the Portland Black community to serve its unique needs.

The Question of Faith

Faith is an important and positive part of the lives of many Portlanders, and in the lives of many PFLAG members.  Many religious institutions in the Portland Metro Area welcome and affirm LGBT members into their congregations.  If you have questions about religion and LGBT issues, the Community of Welcoming Congregations (on our resources page) is an excellent place to start.