Amanda Aarons An Auckland mother with a gay son has started a group for people who want to support young lgbtiq family members. Holding Our Own (HOO) is meeting every two weeks at the Rainbow Youth offices on Karangahape Rd, with the next meeting on Tuesday 6 May, which all are welcome to attend. Founder Amanda Aarons says when her son came out, she and her husband thought it would be smooth sailing, and were “not surprised but still shocked and unsure of how to handle some issues that came up”. She explains: “We found that Josh’s coming out didn’t end there, not only was it a transitional time for him, it was also the beginning of our coming out to friends and family. “Where we sought support there was little, where we least expected it, we found it. Most of all as a family we have all grown through this and have developed a stronger family bond, we continue to navigate this road together and we are all richer for the experience. Josh is our wonderful son, we would not compromise or change any part of who he is, we are very proud.” A social worker who is currently completing a post graduate counselling degree, Aarons feels she is now in a good place to start supporting parents and families going through the same thing. “If you are feeling, lost, alone, isolated, angry, confused, guilty or a little unsure come and join me and let’s talk this through,” she says. “Let’s support ourselves, our children, our families and our communities together, we are each a vital link in the chain.” Aarons says Holding Our Own recognises the need for parents, friends, family and whanau to create a safe space to celebrate, support and ‘hold’ their own. “We open our group to all who share and support our vision. We believe change can begin to happen at a grassroots level.” She says families dealing with a young person coming out may feel shocked, isolated or unsure how to handle some of the issues that came up. “This new group intends to provide support, friendship, information and referrals to parents and siblings, grandparents and friends,” she says. Children of lgbtq parents are also welcome. “Bi weekly meetings will encourage parents to share their stories and pass on information, both giving and gaining support. We will also feature speakers who will provide broader understandings and offer current information.” Anyone who wants further information can call Amanda Aarons on 021 125 7775, or check out www.holdingourown. co.nz
Credit: GayNZ.com Daily News staff
First published: Tuesday, 29th April 2014 - 8:55am