GLSEN Mourns the Loss of PFLAG Founder Jeanne Manford

NEW YORK - The following is a statement from GLSEN Executive Director Eliza Byard on the passing of Parents, Families & Friends of Lesbians and Gays (PFLAG) Founder Jeanne Manford on Tuesday.

"At fifteen I snuck down to Christopher Street to watch the Pride march and wept as the PFLAG contingent went by. Jeanne Manford began a movement of some of the world's fiercest natural allies, parents and friends dedicated to the equality, happiness and well-being of their loved ones. I and the entire GLSEN family salute her legacy and mourn her passing. Thank you to all of those allies through the years who have made us weep with relief and gratitude before renewing our battles with greater strength and power."

ABOUT GLSEN
GLSEN, the Gay, Lesbian & Straight Education Network, is the leading national education organization focused on ensuring safe schools for all students. Established in 1990, GLSEN envisions a world in which every child learns to respect and accept all people, regardless of sexual orientation or gender identity/expression. GLSEN seeks to develop school climates where difference is valued for the positive contribution it makes to creating a more vibrant and diverse community. For information on GLSEN's research, educational resources, public policy advocacy, student organizing programs and educator training initiatives, visit www.glsen.org.