(Winston-Salen, NC) - Talking about gay, lesbian, bisexual and transgender (GLBT) issues is frequently a challenge for many people, but the Winston-Salem chapter of Parents, Families and Friends of Lesbians and Gays (PFLAG) will recognize outstanding straight allies who are meeting this challenge in the community at its second annual Kaleidoscope Awards Banquet on September 9 at 7 p.m. at Temple Emanuel in Winston-Salem, NC.

"Often it is difficult for the families and friends of GLBT people to stand up for their loved ones for many of the same reasons GLBT people do not speak up," said Thomas Farmer, president of the PFLAG chapter. "This event is about strengthening and broadening our community and support structures. It is about letting our community know who our role models and advocates are and in turn empowering all of us to find our voice."

"The four categories - Business, Faith Community, Individual, and School - aim to highlight the powerful changes being made in all aspects of life by fair-minded straight allies and organizations who recognize that moving equality forward for GLBT individuals is the key to achieving justice in every part of our lives. In fact, PFLAG has been building relationships with many in our community and the corporate sponsors for this event are Aon Consulting, Que Pasa Media, Inc, Wachovia, Food Lion, and Club Odyssey."

Jimmy Creech is the director of Community Service for Mitchell Gold and Bob Williams, Inc., world-renown furniture makers from Taylorsville, NC. While his primary focus will be on GLBT equality from a business standpoint, Creech will certainly include his trademark faith perspective on the issues as well.

"Mr. Creech is a prime example how straight allies from our own backyard are taking on the discrimination and hostility faced by GLBT people and forcing us to think about these issues differently and create real change in our communities," said Farmer.

"Often, the primary things we hear in the news are about what is going wrong," Farmer commented. "This evening is a chance to hear about the amazing work that's being done by businesses, faith communities, schools and everyday people in our own community. More importantly, it is a challenge for everyone to hear and learn about the importance of equality and fairness and the role that all of us must play in changing hearts and minds right here at home."

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