Gay Fathers of Toronto ("GFT")

Is a peer support group run by and for gay men who are fathers.

Since 1978 GFT has been helping men on their journeys. We are here to tell our stories and to hear yours. We do not tell you what to do or when; we are here to support you in the path you believe is right for you and your situation.

A Brief History

In 1978 a group of gay men who were also fathers banded together to establish a peer support group for themselves and other gay fathers. These men had created families the only way then possible, in a relationship with the mother of their children. Nevertheless, facing an unfriendly and judgemental world they wanted to reconcile their conflicted desires and emotions.

In 1981, the book Gay Fathers was written, apparently the first of its kind ever published. (Out of print today, it is freely available on this website). That collection of "coming out" biographies was based on the actual experiences of GFT men, including several of the men who started this support group.

Canada today is very different from 1978 in many ways. Marriage regardless of gender became legal in 2003 in Ontario and by 2005 throughout Canada. Sexual orientation is not a factor when child custody decisions are made, and there are many ways gay men can become fathers. Yet thousands of men - for personal, religious, age, or cultural reasons - become fathers first and then later begin the process of coming out, and Gay Fathers of Toronto continues to support those men.

Our Goal

We understand that coming out -- to yourself, to your wife, to your children, to family and to friends -- is a daunting and emotionally challenging. But you are not alone. At Gay Fathers of Toronto, you will find men currently coping with issues similar to yours, other men who have already resolved them, and some gay fathers (even grandfathers) living happily as gay men with or without partners.

With children young and old, fathers at GFT come from every corner of society -  married and divorced, immigrant and Canadian born, young and old, wealthy and poor, able and disabled, every race and nationality. One will find men who have never had sex with anyone but their wives, some that are not even sure if they are gay, bisexual, or trans*. Some men are certain they are gay; some have had a "secret life" for years. Most come to GFT at the beginning of their journeys, but a few come out, fall in love with another man, and later when the relationship has ended start attending GFT meetings. 

Every man at GFT is a father, step-father, or the partner of one. All struggle with questions about sexuality, parenting, and responsibilities. Nearly all of them also began suppressing those questions at an early age, but now those questions need answers. "To love unreservedly", "to end the lie", "to be true to myself", "to live authentically" are some typical ways these men describe that need. As fathers they also want to reconcile their dreams with their responsibilities as fathers - even grandfathers. 

Change is stressfull. Gay Fathers of Toronto understands this and encourages every man to seek professional financial, legal, or emtional guidance as needed. GFT does not prescribe a one-size-fits-all resolution. Every man's situation is unique. Our meeting facilitators are volunteer gay fathers who are trained to lead discussions; they are not counsellors. Through discussions about coming out, being gay, parenting responsilities, and so on every man takes away what he finds relevant. GFT encourages and supports every gay or bisexual dad to find the path that best fits his needs and situation. Coming out is not a single step but a journey of many steps. Together we travel that path a little more confidently and maybe make the journey a little easier.

Meetings

Support group meetings occur two times every month at The 519 Community Centre on 2nd and 4th Thursdays (8:00 to 9:45 pm), except when "The 519" is closed for statutory holidays.

The 519 Community Centre  

Room 304 - 519 Church St. Community Centre, Toronto, ON

Directions to The 519 ►[See map in a new window] - ('The 519': 416-392-6874)

It is not necessary to register or call in advance.

Description of a Typical meeting