Former D.C. Councilmember Carol Schwartz (R-At large), Montgomery County Executive Ike Leggett (D) and Jay Fisette, vice chair of the Arlington County Board, will be hosting an event celebrating the 30th anniversary of the Metro D.C. chapter of Parents, Families & Friends of Lesbians and Gays (PFLAG) on Tuesday, Oct. 1.
The fundraising party, which will be held at Schwartz's Kalorama home, is dedicating all proceeds to support PFLAG's local efforts to promote LGBT equality.
''They asked me to be one of the regional co-chairs, and I gladly said yes, because I've been a member of PFLAG for at least 20 years,'' says Schwartz. ''I think it's a wonderful, worthwhile organization.''
Schwartz, who had an extensive pro-LGBT record during her time on the D.C. Council, said that when PFLAG began it was a ''cutting-edge'' concept, but is now fully embraced by the community. Schwartz added that her own ties to the group have strengthened throughout the years. Originally, she started out as a straight ally, or ''friend'' of PFLAG, but later became a more fully fledged member after her daughter, now married to a woman, came out as bisexual.
''A few years ago, when I used to march in the Capital Pride parade, one of the groups that received much enthusiasm was PFLAG,'' says Schwartz. ''I think the community appreciates a group that says, 'We support you and we love you.'''
PFLAG Metro DC's 30th Anniversary Party, at the home of Carol Schwartz, 2029 Connecticut Ave. NW, runs 6 to 8 p.m., Tuesday, Oct. 1. Tickets, $30, may be purchased online at pflagdc.org or by calling 202-638-3852.
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