There is increasing interest in a support group in the Jewish community for parents and friends of gay, lesbian, bisexual and transgender people. Many parents think they’re the only ones who have a child who isn’t heterosexual, or is struggling with their sexuality or gender identity.
You’re far from alone. There are many people who are in the same situation as yourself, even if you can’t see them.
There is an international organisation called Parents and Friends of Lesbians and Gays (PFLAG) that has several chapters in Australia and has been operating for many years now. The message I hear from parents who are in the Jewish community is that they want to be with people who have a similar life-experience to them. Because of this, a mainstream organisation isn’t necessarily going to be the best fit for them.
So in all of this, I am keen to start a network of parents and friends in the Melbourne Jewish community who have children who identify as gay, lesbian, bisexual or transgender , or who are intersex. I would also like to hear from people who are concerned about their children who may not be open about their sexuality or who are struggling to come to terms with whatever it is they feel about themselves.
Please contact me via this web site, by email, phone (or carrier pigeon!). All communication will be treated in the strictest of confidence.
Michael.
