By Janice Anderson

I am so looking forward to this next school year. Last year was so weird with its hybrid classes, social distancing and no club meetings. I’m the club advisor for my middle school’s Gay Straight Alliance (GSA). Because of social distancing, we couldn’t hold club meetings until the Spring semester. I missed hosting the GSA meetings. Students need a place to feel comfortable, be themselves, socialize and work to make the school better for themselves and other

According to GLSEN’s 2019 National School Climate Survey, students who attend a school with a GSA experience lower levels of bullying related to sexuality and gender identity. They also report a greater number of supportive school staff and affirming peers and feel a greater belonging to their school community.

Mx. Frederick Heather, Coordinator of Texas GSA Network, will be our guest speaker at the July 11 General Meeting. They will explain the Network’s mission in providing information to schools which want to provide a safe school environment. The Network helps educate school communities about gender identity, sexual orientation and the LGBTQ community. If you work in a school without a GSA or you have a student attending a school without a GSA, or you are wondering how to support an established GSA in your school, this will be a great meeting to attend.

Our general meeting begins at 2 p.m. After our guest speaks, we will break into small support groups. Small groups are the heart of PFLAG. It’s a time where you can meet other parents and allies and LGBTQ folk. We share our stories and experiences, voice our concerns and triumphs.

The meeting, along with small groups will be held via Zoom, the online meeting platform. The meeting is open to everyone, but you must get an email invitation and password to attend. To get that invitation, email helplinePFLAGhouston@gmail.com and one will be sent out to you. You may also request a meeting link on our website, www.PFLAGHouston.com. Having a different link each week helps keep outside shenanigans at bay and keeps our warm circle of love safe

Our weekly support groups are still being held online, as well. Until the danger of COVID-19, we will meet safely through Zoom online meetings each Sunday at 2 p.m. Meeting announcements are sent out to our emailing list. Let us know if you would like to be added to our mailing list.

PFLAG Houston is committed to supporting families and educating the public about LGBT issues, and invites all to consider the group’s numerous volunteer opportunities. PFLAG Houston is also passionate about advocacy to ensure equal human rights and end discrimination. PFLAG Houston invites all family members, parents and/or youth who are having problems with coming out issues, and welcomes everyone, regardless of religious affiliation, ethnicity or political persuasion. The group is proud of its rich history and the continued contributions of members, and invites all to learn more about the organization and join in efforts to create a more diverse, accepting society. Find a home in PFLAG.

For information about support, upcoming events and meetings, as well as up-to-date news relevant to PFLAG Houston’s family and friends, visit PFLAGHouston.org, email helplinePFLAGHouston@gmail.com or call the PFLAG Helpline at 713-467-3524.