PFLAG arose from the powerful act of one mother, Jeanne Manford, who in 1972 marched with her son Morty in New York City’s third Christopher Street Liberation Day parade, carrying a sign which said “PARENTS of Gays UNITE . . . ” Her courageous action was witnessed by other parents of gay sons and lesbian daughters who longed to express their support. A movement was born. Occupying church basements and libraries, private homes and parks, parents and allies across the country began to find community in one another, driven together to create a safer and more affirming world for their loved ones. Today, there are over 500 local PFLAG chapters across the country continuing that same mission of Leading With Love.