Dear PFLAG Supporter, How are you feeling? How is your chapter doing? We may not be sharing a physical space right now to hear your answers, but we know our answers are likely similar—exhausted, sad, frustrated, angry, frightened. Some folks have reached out with questions and concerns, mostly variations on, “What’s next? What do we do? And how do we do it?” Collectively, we won’t have all the answers on what’s to come, but we’re taking solace in knowing that whatever comes next, we’ll be doing it together as one, strongly united PFLAG. Some of you have already reached out to us about what your chapters are doing in response to the election; it’s incredible. While it may feel small, the work you all do makes an impact on your communities, on your families, on all of us at PFLAG National, and on each other. As you all know, the Chapter & Communities Engagement team doesn’t go anywhere without a folder full of resources, and while we might not have all the answers, we’re hoping that some of the resources below can support you all as you navigate what’s next. First, let’s talk about taking care of yourselves and your families. We want to uplift two resources shared in the last week: Safety Planning for PFLAG Chapter Members and Taking a Step Back: Prioritizing Self Care as a PFLAG Chapter Leader. Take a look at these if you or your chapter members have questions, concerns, or feelings to explore. We also want to highlight our National Support Hotlines, which offers a host of organizations to look to for support. Second, we know the discriminatory, violent, and politically fueled rhetoric from campaign ads and rallies may have caused you, your families, and your LGBTQ+ loved ones—especially those who are trans or nonbinary—to feel like the vast majority of the country opposes us. We want to remind you of some important data points about this country, and please remember them as you move forward in this work: Lastly, it’s never easy feeling personally vulnerable, for example, when seeking understanding from family or community members whose values feel scary or are dangerous. PFLAGers have always been at the forefront of meeting people where they are, leaning into challenging conversations, and being strong, visible activists in their communities. That said, it’s important to know that it’s okay to NOT have those conversations, especially when feeling unsafe or vulnerable. It is okay—crucial—to center your own well being in this moment. There are days and weeks and months ahead with more work to come—including resources we’ll be sending in order to have those hard holiday conversations. Know when to say when. Nobody knows what comes next, and that’s okay. Right now it’s important to care for yourself, for one another, to be kind, and to center safety and community care. |
