The first time attending our support group, you may feel a little nervous. We want to do our part to answer as many questions as we can before you get here, so your first experience is as helpful and enjoyable as possible! Below you will find the answers to some commonly asked questions.
Q: Where and when are your meetings?
The 3rd Thursday of every month at 7:00 p.m. Other events will be announced via our website and via our Facebook page: facebook.com/FFLUIDvc
At the United Church of Christ, 370 Royal Ave., Simi Valley Ca 93065
Q: What kinds of people attend your support group?
A: People of all ages, gender orientations and sexual orientations. Our group is made up of primarily transgender, transitioning and non-binary persons. We do however, experience times when parents will come to seek support for a loved one who identifies as LGBTQIA+. We want to assure you, however, all are welcome as long as you refrain from hateful speech or personal attacks! People who espouse hate-filled or intolerant views will be asked to leave.
Q: I am just beginning to transition, am I welcome at your meetings?
A: YES!!! In fact, you will find that many of our members are quite helpful and can point you toward valuable resources or simply offer a listening ear.
Q: I identify as gay, bisexual, lesbian or straight am I welcome?
A: YES!! While most of our members are seeking support for issues around gender identity, we have a found that all people, regardless of gender or sexual identity have found that we all have similar journeys and can learn from each other.
Q: How should I dress for the meetings?
A: Please feel free to come dressed as you wish. You will not be criticized for your gender expression or wardrobe choices. We want you to be comfortable! We will never ask you to conform to anyone else’s idea about how you should express yourself or your gender identity.
Q: What restroom should I use?
A: Whatever restroom you wish. There are gendered restroom and a non-gendered restroom available and no judgments will be made on which one you use.
Q: Will I be yelled at if I use the wrong pronoun?
A: NO! We do encourage you to use the pronoun with which each person is most comfortable (he, she, they, etc.), but you will not be reprimanded if you make a mistake. The person you are addressing might give you a gentle reminder, but we have never had an incident where anyone became angry. We give you the benefit of the doubt, and assume you are trying your best. However, those who continue to “misgender” another member in order to be cruel or hurtful, will be immediately asked to leave.
Q: Your meetings are at a church, are you sure that’s a good idea?
A: Yes, FFLUID is a community outreach program of UCC Simi Valley, a church that has been a vocal supporter of the LGBTQ+ community and declared itself “Open and Affirming” (not only welcoming but radically supportive as well) in 1998 by a unanimous vote.
Please note:
- This is not a group that is intended for members of any particular religious group. You are welcome regardless of your religious perspective.
Atheist? No Problem!
Agnostic? We already have a few!
Christian, Buddhist, Jew, Muslim? We hope your time with us enhances your journey!
- This is not a group for the purposes of religious conversion! People may, from time to time, discuss spiritual struggles that accompany being a part of or connected to the LGBTQ+ community. We do not, however, allow any proselytizing (conversion tactics) or religious debates.