Parents, Families, and Friends of Lesbians and Gays North Toronto Chapter

Overview

The Parents, Families, and Friends of Lesbians and Gays North Toronto Chapter, commonly known as Toronto Pflag, is a Canadian nonprofit organization dedicated to supporting families and allies of lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, non-binary, queer, and two-spirit individuals. The organization is part of the broader network of Pflag Canada chapters across the country.

History

Toronto Pflag was founded by two mothers, June Tattle Goss and Anne Rutledge, in the early 1970s. They began the organization, initially named Parents of Gays (POG), after their sons introduced them to each other. This marked the beginning of a movement that would grow to include multiple chapters across Ontario and Canada over the following decades.

Mission and Activities

The mission of Toronto Pflag aligns with that of Pflag Canada, aiming to create a society that affirms, respects, and values all sexualities, genders, and gender expressions. Toronto Pflag accomplishes this through various activities:

• Support Meetings: The organization hosts regular support meetings, both online and in-person, to provide a safe space for families to discuss and navigate issues related to LGBTQ+ individuals.

• Educational Programs: Toronto Pflag offers free school presentations for students from Grades 2 to 12, promoting understanding and acceptance of LGBTQ+ individuals.

• Workshops for Businesses: The organization conducts workshops for businesses at a reasonable cost, helping to foster inclusive environments.

• Specialized Support Groups: In addition to general support meetings, Toronto Pflag facilitates specialized groups, such as "Dads Night" for fathers of LGBTQ+ children and a support group for adult trans women and non-binary individuals.

Impact and Structure

As part of Pflag Canada, Toronto Pflag contributes to a national network that works towards a more inclusive and supportive society for LGBTQ+ individuals. Pflag Canada, officially consolidated as a federal corporation in 2005, has chapters throughout Canada, reflecting the growth of a movement that began with the founding actions of supportive parents in the early 1970s.

Toronto Pflag's operations are funded through donations and corporate workshops, ensuring that the organization can continue its mission of support, education, and advocacy for LGBTQ+ individuals and their families.