PEI

Orlando killings prompt Island PFLAG chapter plans to revitalize

The P.E.I. chapter of PFLAG is hoping to revitalize its organization in the wake of the Orlando killings, with a meeting on Saturday.

Inactive of late, group will hold Charlottetown meeting Saturday

The mass shooting at a gay nightclub in Orlando, Fla. has shocked and saddened P.E.I. PFLAG members. (Devin Heroux/CBC News )

The P.E.I. chapter of PFLAG is hoping to revitalize its organization in the wake of the Orlando killings.

PFLAG helps people who are dealing with issues of sexual orientation, gender identity and gender expression.

Gordon Boothroyd is with the Island chapter, joining 12 years ago when his daughter came out.

"We haven't been very active in the past several years," he said. "But recent events showed that, I guess, we have to be more active to re-strengthen our numbers and our commitment to the gay and lesbian community on Prince Edward Island, to show them our support, that they have an ally in this particular chapter."

Even before the shootings in Orlando, the group had planned a revitalization meeting.

Group getting calls, emails

Boothroyd said they've been receiving calls and emails, and have now booked a bigger room.

He called the Orlando massacre senseless and beyond belief, and said the shootings send a signal that more has to be done, the sooner the better.

"Our involvement in the P.E.I. community must certainly be more active, proactive," said Boothroyd.

The meeting is Saturday morning, June 18, at 10 a.m. at the Murphy Community Centre in Charlottetown.