Raising children in today’s world presents unique challenges, especially when navigating topics of identity and acceptance. As parents, our primary role is to love, support, and protect our children as they discover who they are. This journey becomes even more crucial when our children identify as LGBTQ+, requiring us to be informed, empathetic, and proactive in our support.
[Your child’s identity is valid and deserves to be celebrated.](Image URL of a supportive family, if available from original article, or a generic image of a diverse and loving family. Alt Text: A loving family embraces their LGBTQ+ child with pride and acceptance.)
My own experience as a parent within the LGBTQ+ community has been enlightening. My daughter, Kat, came out as lesbian at 15 and faced societal prejudice. Now, my 13-year-old son, Ace, is also part of this vibrant community. Navigating Ace’s journey has required me to be even more involved and protective, especially within the sometimes-turbulent environment of middle school.
Last year, I chose to announce Ace’s name and pronoun change on Instagram. This decision wasn’t taken lightly, but it was necessary. Rumors and misgendering were already circulating, and I wanted to preemptively address them before rejoining “Real Housewives.” My intention was twofold: to protect Ace from negativity and to ensure he never felt hidden or ashamed. My love for my child is unconditional, and I wanted the world to know that.
Middle school is undeniably a challenging phase for all children. It’s a time of intense emotions and social pressures. However, for children who deviate from societal norms, these challenges are amplified. As parents of LGBTQ+ children, we must be acutely aware and even more supportive during these formative years.
Naturally, I worry about Ace. Like any parent, I wish I could shield my children from all pain and adversity. While a bubble wrap of protection is impossible, equipping them with the necessary tools to navigate the world is within my power. My husband, Terry, and I are constantly learning and adapting, just like all parents striving to do their best.
It’s crucial to understand that the issue isn’t with the children themselves, but often with adult misconceptions and prejudices. Recently, at an event, a politician questioned whether transgender identities were merely a trend influenced by social media like TikTok. I firmly refuted this, highlighting the historical parallels with outdated and harmful perspectives on the gay community decades ago, when conversion therapy was wrongly considered a solution.
[Gender identity and sexual orientation are inherent aspects of an individual’s being, not choices or trends.](Image URL of a medical professional explaining biological factors, if available and relevant, or a generic image representing scientific understanding. Alt Text: Expert explains the biological basis of gender identity and sexual orientation, emphasizing it’s not a choice.)
My husband, a highly respected surgeon, reinforces this understanding from a biological standpoint. Just as we are born with innate characteristics like eye color or height, our gender identity and sexual orientation are intrinsic. These are not decisions made, but rather fundamental aspects of who we are.
As someone with a public platform, I feel a responsibility to use it for positive change. I aim to showcase the reality of my family and demonstrate the unwavering support we provide. It’s not about broadcasting my children’s personal stories, but sharing our family’s experiences to foster understanding and acceptance. This was a significant motivation for my return to “Real Housewives.” The overwhelming number of messages I receive from LGBTQ+ individuals estranged from their families underscores the urgent need for greater acceptance and support. If our family’s journey can help bridge divides and offer hope, then sharing our story is worthwhile.
My most important advice to parents is simple yet profound: Love your children unconditionally. Support their journey of self-discovery. Prioritize their well-being. And most importantly, listen to them. They yearn to be heard, understood, and accepted for who they truly are.
This article has been edited and condensed for clarity and conciseness.
Content adapted and rewritten by a Content Creation Specialist.
