Today we’d like to introduce you to Jennifer Solomon
Jennifer, we appreciate you taking the time to share your story with us today. Where does your story begin?
My journey as an advocate for LGBTQ+ families began close to home, as the proud parent of four children, three of whom are part of the LGBTQ+ community. In 2017, I founded the PFLAG Miami chapter, initially searching for a community of parents with similar experiences, but when I couldn’t find one, I created it myself. The chapter has since become a supportive space for families to connect, share advice, and become allies for their loved ones.
From there, my advocacy expanded. I became an appointed member of HRC’s Parents for Transgender Equality Council, giving me the opportunity to advocate on a national level. I currently serve as the President of Florida PTA’s Kaleidoscope Chapter, where I work to uplift and support LGBTQ+ parents and families statewide.
Today, I am the Parents and Families Support Manager for Equality Florida, where I run a program called Parenting with Pride. In this role, I combine my personal experiences and professional passion to help families navigate their journeys and empower parents to advocate for their children’s rights.
My advocacy has been recognized by Equality Florida, where I was honored with the 2023 Voice for Equality Award, and by SAVE, where I was named a 2023 Champion of Equality. I also regularly speak at local school board meetings, state legislatures, and before the Congressional Equality Caucus in Washington, D.C., fighting for families like mine. My work has been featured on MSNBC, CBS, and CNN.
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
It definitely hasn’t been a smooth road. Like many parents of LGBTQ+ children, I’ve faced moments of uncertainty and fear, especially in a climate that can feel increasingly hostile toward LGBTQ+ youth. There have been difficult conversations, both within my own family and in public spaces where I’ve had to stand up for my children and the broader LGBTQ+ community. The emotional toll of constantly advocating for basic rights can be exhausting, especially when faced with policies and rhetoric that aim to limit those rights.
Starting PFLAG Miami was a challenge in itself. I couldn’t find the resources or support I was looking for, which is why I had to create it from the ground up. Building that chapter and growing it into a safe haven for families wasn’t easy, especially while navigating my own personal journey as a parent. Balancing the emotional labor of being a mother to LGBTQ+ children with the demands of advocacy work has also been challenging at times.
On a larger scale, advocating for change in places where resistance is strong can be draining. Whether it’s speaking at school board meetings, in front of state legislators, or at the national level, I’ve faced pushback and sometimes outright hostility. But through it all, I’ve learned to stay grounded in my purpose—helping families like mine and making sure no parent ever feels alone on this journey.
Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know about your work?
In my role as the Parents and Families Support Manager for Equality Florida, I run a program called Parenting with Pride, which provides education, resources, and support to families raising LGBTQ+ children. My work focuses on empowering parents to confidently advocate for their children’s rights and well-being, helping them navigate the challenges that come with parenting in today’s climate. Through webinars, workshops, and in-person summits, I strive to create inclusive spaces where families can connect, learn, and find the support they need.
I specialize in creating strong, supportive communities, both locally and across the state, by leveraging my experience as a parent and advocate. I am known for my ability to build bridges between diverse families, ensuring that they feel seen, supported, and empowered to speak out for their children. One of the things I’m most proud of is the personal impact I’ve been able to make—whether through direct outreach, such as when parents reach out for help through our website, or by organizing statewide events like our Back to School Parent Education Summit. Seeing parents go from feeling scared or unsure to confidently advocating for their children has been incredibly rewarding.
What sets me apart is my unique blend of personal experience as a parent of LGBTQ+ children and professional advocacy. Having lived through the challenges that many families face, I bring a deep understanding and empathy to my work. My involvement at both the local level—through founding PFLAG Miami and serving as President of Florida PTA’s Kaleidoscope Chapter—and the national level as a member of HRC’s Parents for Transgender Equality Council, allows me to advocate for change on multiple fronts.
The most fulfilling part of my work is hearing from families who say that our support has transformed their lives. Helping parents feel empowered and connected is not just my job; it’s my passion and what drives me every day.
What were you like growing up?
Growing up, I was always a caretaker at heart. From an early age, I knew that my greatest joy would come from being a mother, and that turned out to be true. My nurturing nature naturally led me to pursue a career in nursing, where I could care for others in a meaningful way. Becoming a pediatric nurse felt like the perfect extension of who I’ve always been.
Beyond that, I’ve always had a deep belief that love is love, and that people should be free to live authentically. This belief has shaped how I approach not only my personal life but also my advocacy for LGBTQ+ youth. My work in this space feels like second nature because it’s rooted in the same nurturing instincts that have always guided me. Whether as a nurse, a mom, or an advocate, creating supportive environments where people feel loved and accepted has been central to who I am.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.parentingwithpride.org
- Instagram: PFLAG MIami
- Facebook: PFLAG Miami
