If you’re on this page, it’s likely that someone close to you has just come out. This person you care about has trusted you with very personal information about him or herself and hopes that you will respect that trust. For some, this is a somewhat confusing time that can lead mixed feelings as we try to wrap our heads around the news.
Coming out may mean risking rejection and even the loss of support from family and friends. Even though we might feel uncomfortable and not know how to react, it is important we learn how to move forward in a positive way.
The best thing we can do is to listen, talk, and listen. Open and honest conversation is a vital part of coming out and will help to move our relationships toward a point of mutual understanding and acceptance.
West Island Parent & Family Support Group
The centre organizes meetings for parents and family of GLBTQ youth on the second Tuesday each month from 7:00 to 9:00 P.M. within the Beaconsfield United Church building.
Click here for details
Educate Yourself
Educate yourself and take some time to learn more about what it is to be gay, lesbian, bisexual, or transsexual in today’s world. Take a look at some of the helpful links to information for parents and families of people who have just come out.
Educate yourself on the issues and current services and legislation. You are not expected to know everything. Be willing to be honest about your ignorance and make a commitment to learn the answers to the questions.
from Supportive Strategies for Serving Transgender, Transsexual Youth and Young People who do not Conform to Gender Stereotypes
Helpful links
PFLAG Canada
Parents and Friends of Lesbians and Gays – supports, educates and provides resources to anyone with questions or concerns 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. They also have a website with a lot of excellent information for parents, families and friends.
- When sons and daughters come out
- My Brother or Sister is Gay, Lesbian, or Bisexual
- Making School Safe for Everyone – From the Vancouver School Board
FamilyAcceptance.com
When Atlanta realtor Adam Ellis first came out to his parents, it took a while for them to accept him, though, in time, they finally did.
After realizing that there weren’t many resources online for parents of gay teens, his family decided to create one for parents (and kids) who were struggling with the coming out process to help them understand that they are not alone.
Children’s Aid Society of Toronto
Since 1994, Children’s Aid Society of Toronto has worked hard to be a positive space for LGBTQ people and has been a leader in child welfare. Their Out and Proud Program ensures that its services are open, inclusive, safe, affirming and positive for LGBTQ children and youth.
You can find have many excellent and informative fact sheets on their website
We’re continually updating our web site. If you find good information for parents, families and friends you feel should be included, please contact us. All communication will be kept completely confidential.