Bayfront Youth & Family Services is excited to announce our upcoming Parent Council meeting, scheduled for June 20, 2024. In honor of Pride Month, this meeting will focus on fostering LGBTQ+ understanding and acceptance, a crucial topic for creating inclusive and supportive environments for all children and families.

Pride Month, celebrated every June, commemorates the Stonewall Riots of 1969, a pivotal event in the LGBTQ+ rights movement. The riots began on June 28, 1969, in response to a police raid at the Stonewall Inn, a gay bar in New York City's Greenwich Village. This event sparked a series of protests and demonstrations that were instrumental in the fight for LGBTQ+ rights and led to the first Pride marches in 1970.

Event Details

Our Parent Council meeting will take place from 5:00 PM to 6:30 PM at our office located at 900 E Wardlow Rd, Long Beach, CA 90807. For those who prefer to join remotely, the virtual session will begin promptly at 5:30 PM via Zoom. We are committed to making this event accessible to everyone, which is why we are offering both in-person and virtual participation options.

Attendees who join us in person can expect a welcoming environment with provided snacks and childcare, ensuring a comfortable experience for all. The in-person session starts at 5:00 PM, allowing ample time for community building and personal interaction. For virtual attendees, simply click the provided link to join us via Zoom: https://us06web.zoom.us/j/6169513851 with Meeting ID: 616 951 3851 or join via One tap mobile: +16699006833,,6169513851# US (San Jose).

Importance of LGBTQ+ Understanding and Acceptance

This Parent Council meeting aims to create a supportive and inclusive space where parents, caregivers, and community members can come together to learn about LGBTQ+ issues. Understanding and acceptance are crucial for creating safe and nurturing environments for all children, and this session will provide valuable insights and practical advice for supporting LGBTQ+ youth.

The discussion will cover the importance of acceptance and support for LGBTQ+ individuals, highlighting the challenges they face, including discrimination, mental health issues, and the risk of bullying. We will also explore ways parents and caregivers can foster a supportive environment at home and in the community, emphasizing the importance of affirming language, understanding pronouns, and being an ally.

Participants will benefit from educational content that deepens their understanding of LGBTQ+ issues and offers practical ways to support and advocate for LGBTQ+ youth. Additionally, this event provides an excellent opportunity to connect with other parents and caregivers who share a commitment to fostering an inclusive environment for all children. Our Parent Advocate, Evelyn Cortez, will be available to answer any questions and provide guidance, ensuring that attendees have access to valuable resources and support.

Raffle Prize!

To add a touch of excitement, we will also hold a raffle for a special prize, open to all attendees. This is our way of thanking you for your participation and commitment to fostering a more inclusive and supportive community.

Contact Information

For more information or any questions, please contact our Parent Advocate, Evelyn Cortez, at (562) 355-8968 or via email at ECortez@bayfrontyfs.org. We look forward to seeing you at our Parent Council meeting as we celebrate Pride Month and work together to promote understanding, acceptance, and support for LGBTQ+ youth.

Bayfront Youth & Family Services is dedicated to providing comprehensive support systems that promote safe and nurturing environments for children, adolescents, and their caregivers. Our mission is to support the family, support the child, and foster community connection for all.