Philadelphia Family Pride (PFP) began in 1993 as an effort by members of a lesbian mothers group who were interested in creating a structure that would address the special needs of children in lesbian and gay families. Members of a group of adoptive parents joined the effort, as did other lesbian and gay parents unconnected with any organization. From its initial, informal meetings, the group grew rapidly. PFP’s first major public event, an educational forum held in the spring of 1994 as part of Philadelphia’s PrideFest celebration, attracted some 70 families.
In July, 1994, PFP became a chapter member of the Gay and Lesbian Parents Coalition International (GLPCI), a 501(c)(3) organization. A dues structure was also established and by 1997 had well over a hundred member families from the greater Philadelphia area.
Philadelphia Family Pride ratified its first bylaws in 1996 and in 2000, PFP received tax exempt status as a 501(c)(3) organization.
PFP collaborates frequently with other organizations, including the Gay, Lesbian & Straight Teachers Network (GLSTN), Parents and Friends of Lesbians and Gays (P-FLAG), Value All Families Coalition, and COLAGE.
In 2007, PFP created a new branding strategy and unveiled a logo. Bylaws were updated and ratified in 2008 and major website revisions also occurred in 2008 and 2012. The organization continues to grew and thrive with an expanding geographic reach and diversity in membership.
Our first Family Matters Conference for LGBT parents and prospective parents was held at Bryn Mawr School of Social Work and Social Policy in 2010 and had over 100 attendees. The following year, in 2011, the 2nd Family Matters Conference was held at Widener University in Chester, PA. Plans for the 2012 conference are under way, this time at Arcadia University in Elkins Park.
Our member survey in the Spring of 2012 provided excellent feedback. Look for exciting and varied social calendar in 2012, along with some terrific educational opportunities for LGBT-headed families.
