Rainbow Families is a member of Family Equality’s National Network of LGBTQ+ Family Groups. The National Network of LGBTQ+ Family Groups exists to support and coordinate LGBTQ+ family groups across the country, providing a platform to empower, educate, and support groups and leaders. Click here to learn more.
For decades, Washington D.C.’s Rainbow Families has offered LGBTQ+ parents, prospective parents, and families an array of support programs, classes, and opportunities to connect and be empowered. Their Annual Family Conference—two days of workshops, inspiration, and community-building—has been a staple tradition for this community since 2003.
But in early 2020, with the COVID-19 pandemic closing down in-person events, Rainbow Families had to scrap plans for a conference at the stunning Washington National Cathedral. They had to choose: pivot and host the program entirely on Zoom or sit out the year. They chose the virtual route and, in doing so, learned the power of connection with attendees from across the country.
Now, they’re looking ahead to their 2021 virtual conference, which is only days away! Featuring a special performance and message by the iconic Indigo Girls and their 2021 “Hero of the Year,” Congressman Mondaire Jones. Both he and Representative Angie Craig were keynote speakers at their 2020 conference, and in the year since, Congressman Jones has been making his mark on matters of justice, equality, and opportunity for all.
The program is May 22 and 23, with over 25 workshops, an expo of LGBTQ+ affirming service providers, a school fair, kids programming, and more. Workshop tracks include:
- Maybe Baby/Pathways to Parenthood
- Raising Healthy Happy Families
- Diversity Race & Equity, Education
- Legal & Financial Matters
- And more.
They have continued their model from last year, namely “Come & Go.” Attendees are invited to participate in what interests them—even from their smartphones—while still enjoying their weekend. Tickets are available at rainbowfamilies.org and are $44 for two people. Waivers are available for anyone in the LGBTQ+ community experiencing financial hardship.
In addition to corporate sponsors including Cryobio, Blue Cross Blue Shield Association, Leidos Corporation, Columbia Fertility, Seattle Sperm, CCRM Fertility, Simple Surrogacy, Private Label Surrogacy, over 20 nonprofit organizations are with them again this year to lend their support— including Family Equality. Join us for this amazing event by clicking here!