This year at Memphis Pride Fest, LGBTQ attendees got a chance to get a free hug from a mom, dad, or non-binary parental figure.
Now that Pride has passed, this group of LGBTQ and Allied parental figures is continuing their outreach with a series of events designed as listening and support sessions for LGBTQ people. Want to come out again—and this time get some genuine support? Want to vent about some discrimination or hostility you’ve experienced?
Join them on Sunday, October 14th and/or Sunday, October 21st from 2:00p-4:00p at one of these locations:
Otherlands Coffee Bar, 641 Cooper Street, Memphis, TN 30104
Panera Bread, 714 Germantown Parkway, Cordova, TN 38018
Southaven Library, 8554 Northwest Drive, Southaven, MS, 38671
Crosstown Concourse, 1350 Concourse Avenue, Memphis, TN 38104
Memphis Main Public Library, 3030 Poplar, Memphis, TN 38111
To learn more, click here to go to their facebook page, contact Edie Love, or read a message from the organizers below:
A group of people recently formed a group to give Free Mom (and Dad, and Non-Binary,) Hugs at Mid-South Pride. After such a successful inaugural Pride, the group plans to provide support year-round. In honor of National Coming Out Day, our next public event will be two set dates for offering love and listening to our LGBTQ siblings. On October 14th and 21st, from 2-4 pm, listeners will be available.
Sessions will be open for up to 30 minutes per person. Any LGBTQ person who wishes to be listened to only has to show up. We will listen without judgement or advice. Come share your story in a safe space with an open heart and mind. You might wish to discuss your orientation, gender identity, coming out story, how your family does or does not support you, or how being LGBTQ has affected your life. You will find us wearing a purple scarf, a purple tie, or purple flower in our hair. We’re listening.
