An anti-bullying leader: Famous PFLAG mom Betty DeGeneres
Betty DeGeneres is quite possibly the most well-known PFLAG parent in the world. Mother to out talk show host Ellen DeGeneres, the elder DeGeneres is currently on tour to raise money and speak out against bullying in schools with the Parents, Families and Friends of Lesbians and Gays’ “Care with PRIDE” anti-bullying campaign in schools across the nation. She has written two books recounting her reaction to daughter Ellen DeGeneres’ coming out and her own path into LGBT activism.
Betty spoke with OFC about her activism and passion for standing against bullying.
How has it been speaking out against bullying on the road?
The Care with Pride program is going to help spread the word about how we can all take action against bullying in our schools. I’m a proud PFLAG mom, and I support PFLAG’s work making schools safer for all of our children. [Join PFLAG Mom Betty DeGeneres in the fight against bullying in our schools!]
What have you gained from working with the campaign, Care with PRIDE?
I’m just proud to be lending my voice to PFLAG’s efforts to make schools safe for all children.
What sorts of topics are you particularly passionate about speaking on?
I speak about unconditional love, about ending bigotry and discrimination, about equal rights for our LGBT citizens, and about the fairness of same-sex marriage.
What will PFLAG’s presence be like at Denver’s PrideFest?
Unfortunately, I won’t be in Denver for PrideFest this year, but PFLAG Denver will be in the parade and will also have a booth at the festival. Adjacent to PFLAG Denver at the festival will be the Care with PRIDE exhibit. I encourage everyone to stop by the festival to learn more about the good work that’s being done to fight bullying.
How have you been received while speaking at other PrideFests or similar events?
Bullying has come to the forefront in recent years with the world-wide use of the Internet. It has naturally become a topic for me.
How do you see yourself as fitting in to the LGBT community? You are, indeed, a great ally.
I see it as a perfect fit. My daughter is a lesbian – as is my daughter-in-law. I stand up for them and, by extension, the LGBT community. ]
