Our Vision and Mission

When PFLAG founder Jeanne Manford marched with her son Morty in the 1972 Christopher Street Liberation Day March, she was overwhelmed by the number of weeping, rejected LGBTQ young people who embraced her along the route, each of them begging her to speak with their own parents and families. Morty knew that Jeanne’s presence caused a stir—and inspired others to ask her for support, or ask her to support their own parents. Over the next few months, it became clear to Morty that a meeting of like-minded people could help not only LGBT people get the support they needed, but would really help the parents and families learn how to support their loved ones. PFLAG was born out of this need.

PFLAG is an organization of LGBTQ+ people, parents, families, and allies who work together to create an equitable and inclusive world. We are hundreds of thousands of people and hundreds of chapters from coast to coast who are leading with love to support families, educate allies, and advocate for just, equitable, and inclusive legislation and policies. Since our founding in 1973, PFLAG works every day to ensure LGBTQ+ people everywhere are safe, celebrated, empowered and loved.

PFLAG supports each individual and their journey by standing beside them and providing guidance along the way—activating an energetic love that is constant and steadfast.

The PFLAG San Diego County chapter was founded by Lillian and Hy Rubin in 1982 and started with 15 members. We’ve come a long way!