Washington, DC; September 8, 2009-PFLAG-Parents, Families and Friends of Lesbians and Gays-joins other leading lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender (LGBT) organizations in supporting the National Equality March and related advocacy activities across the country on October 10-11, 2009. PFLAG National leaders encourage members and supporters who cannot attend in person to use this as an opportunity to renew their commitment to local grassroots advocacy.

“PFLAG is always supportive of bringing the cause of equality to the public arena,” said John R. Cepek, President of PFLAG. “Advocacy is a strong part of our mission, and we hope those who participate in the march or other activities-either in Washington, DC or at home-will feel empowered to create change that brings about equality for all people, including those of diverse sexual orientations and gender identities.”

In addition to advocating on behalf of LGBT people and their families and friends, PFLAG works to provide support to individuals and groups on the local level, and to educate members and the public about the LGBT community and issues affecting it.

“This is a critical time for supporters of LGBT issues,” said Jody M. Huckaby, PFLAG Executive Director. “Bringing the national spotlight to current issues-both federal issues and pending legislation in several states-helps build support for equality for all citizens.” This fall, both Maine and Washington will vote on referenda to repeal same-sex marriage rights or domestic partnership benefits provided by the state legislators and signed by governors. At the same time, several pieces of legislation are pending before Congress, including the Employment Non-Discrimination Act; the military’s ‘Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell’ policy; and the Local Law Enforcement Hate Crimes Prevention Act.

“PFLAG’s chief advocacy goal is to secure equal rights for our LGBT friends and loves ones,” Huckaby said. “This march is one of many ways that people can become engaged in the work of equality. We will look to provide advocacy tools and resources to those who participate in the march, as well as encouragement to everyone else who cannot be in DC for the march to recommit to the support, education and advocacy work that PFLAG does best to help move equality forward.”

PFLAG members and other participants can learn more about how to speak to legislators about key LGBT issues in PFLAG’s grassroots lobbying guide, Bringing the Message Home, available for free download at www.PFLAG.org/btmh09.