Dear Editor:
Nov. 22 marks the one-year anniversary of PFLAG Canada Goderich. PFLAG is a national organization with local chapters. It is for those who are, or know someone who is, struggling with gender identity and sexual orientation issues. This group provides a friendly ear for families, friends, allies, and LGBTQ (Lesbian, gay, bisexual, trans, questioning) individuals.
In the past year much has happened. Each month saw a support group meeting as well as the below events:
On Nov. 22, 2011, the first support meeting was held at the Goderich Branch of the Huron County Library.
In March 2012, the Chapter leader was Central Huron Secondary School’s GSA (Gay Straight Alliance) guest speaker.
On May 14, 2012 Goderich Town Council declared May 17 as official International Day against Homophobia Day. Also this month the chapter leader made a presentation at the Avon-Maitland District School Board Gay Straight Alliance Day.
In June, there was a movie night at the Huron County Museum. The movie shown was Farm Family, in Search of Gay life in Rural America.
July saw a massive garage sale fund-raiser, with over $300 raised. The group partnered with the Huron OSPCA who barbecued hotdogs and sold drinks. Also, this month we marched in the Goderich Canada Day Parade.
August events included a Social Bowling night and an information booth at Windstock.
As we look to the future, here is what the next year will bring:
Nov. 17, 2012: Watch for PFLAG Canada Goderich in the Goderich Santa Claus Parade.
Nov. 21, 2012: Next support group meeting at the Goderich Library, 6 p.m.
Date TBA: Cyber-bullying workshop, with OPP guest speaker.
It has been an interesting first year, and we would like to extend a thank-you to all the local agencies and businesses that have assisted the group. A special Thank-you to the nurses at the Huron County Health Unit who have been indispensable at providing referrals, the businesses that have provided donations, the Huron County Library for donating the space for meetings, and lastly, all the great people who have attended the meetings and volunteered at events. All of you help make the group the success it is.
Jennifer Zoethout
Chapter Leader, PFLAG Canada Goderich
