Recognizing a lack of resources for the lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, intersex, gender-fluid and questioning (LGBTQ+) community in Skagit County, a group of concerned individuals saw a need to establish a PFLAG Chapter.
They came together for their first meeting in September of 2000, and now meet via Zoom on the second Sunday of each month. Members now come from all parts of Skagit County and across the region.
The members of PFLAG Skagit welcome all who would like to come and visit during our monthly meetings. Every meeting offers opportunities for sharing in an open yet confidential dialogue with supportive members of other families who have dealt, or are dealing, with acceptance of their loved ones’ sexual orientation or gender identity. We also warmly welcome members of the LGBTQ+ community who are willing to participate and share their lives. (See more under Support).
Skagit County (and society at large) has come a long way towards achieving acceptance of sexual minorities. However, some of our schools have not provided training to prevent harassing behavior, workplaces can still be hostile and unfriendly, health care providers can lack information or sensitivity, and we work to educate with a goal of equality. Through our concerted efforts, we won marriage equality in 2010. We also fought for the right to openly serve in the military and for all veterans to have their service honored.
It is for this reason that PFLAG Skagit exists; we are here to provide support, education, and advocacy for LGBTQ+ people and their loved ones who live here among us, in our own neighborhoods and towns, in beautiful Skagit County.
PFLAG Skagit is one of 360 local affiliates across the United States, plus 11 in other countries. We have almost 50 chapters in the Pacific Northwest (OR, ID, MT, AK and WA).
Today, with over 325,000 members, PFLAG National has become a significant voice, speaking out regarding society’s attitudes toward our LGBTQ+ loved ones. Even if you do not have time to come to a meeting, you are invited to join us as a member. We stand up for you, your family, your neighbors and co-workers. Check out all the fun things we do and join us.