January 10, 2021


Dear PFLAG Cape Cod members and supporters,

Last Wednesday’s storming of the Capitol has left us all shaken and uncertain about the days and weeks ahead. As I watched the disturbing events unfold while at my computer at work, my heart ached and my eyes welled up in sheer disbelief as the cradle and the heart of our Nation’s democracy was under attack. It felt like a punch to the stomach and all too reminiscent of the terrorist attacks of 9/11.

I know from speaking with others that they too shared a similar perspective. And much like the days following 9/11, I have found myself glued to the news on my mobile phone or television, desperately searching for an understanding of what happened, hoping for the insight and expertise of others to help me grapple with the events of that day.  

I echo the words of PFLAG National President, Brian Bond, who had this to say in an email that evening:

“I speak on behalf of PFLAG to thoroughly condemn today’s violence. These actions were undertaken not to build up, but to tear down. And we cannot ignore glaring differences between the treatment of Black Lives Matter protestors seeking justice and the treatment of the violent insurrectionists who today stormed the U.S. Capitol to undermine our democracy. The people attacking the Capitol building are not protestors, and the disparities in how they were received are glaringly clear. This is a scary time and might very well continue to be for months to come. I am angry - we should all be. I urge all of you to take care of yourselves and each other, while continuing to safely stand up for our values and our country. We are an organization born out of advocacy and action for justice, this is what we do; PFLAGers are uniquely suited to rise to this moment.”

Thankfully, a new administration will soon be sworn into office, and our Nation can slowly begin to heal. It will not be easy journey, and it may in fact get worse before it gets better. But, like Brian also mentioned, I too firmly believe we will come out of this a stronger people. (I encourage you to take a few minutes to watch this video from CNN's Fareed Zakaria, which may bring you some measure of comfort.) 

In the meantime, please take care of yourself and one another as we forge ahead through these turbulent and uncertain times, and know that PFLAG Cape Cod is here for you as you seek support, community, and a sense of family.

In peace,


Joe Lima
President, PFLAG Cape Cod