There are some things that should be normal and not worth mentioning in a news post. Like the unconditional support of a family for their child. But until we live in a world where these things are indeed the norm, it’s awesome to see people with a lot of influence set good examples.
Like when NBA player Dwyane Wade, though he couldn’t be there in person due to having a game in Toronto, made sure his 11-year-old son Zion felt supported at the Miami Beach Pride parade last Sunday. He first posted a photo on his Instagram story of Zion and stepmom Gabrielle Union. He captioned the post: ‘We support each other with Pride!’
Dwayne Wade and Gabby Union supporting young Zion at Miami Pride is so beautiful, I could cry. I can’t imagine having had this type of support as a kid (or even young adult). Amazing example of living in and showing unconditional love 💕 pic.twitter.com/2cT8Ow6kik
— Câmi Thomas (@CamiCruzThomas) April 7, 2019
Regardless of how Zion identifies, having the support of his parents, family, and friends in attending an event like Pride is crucial. Several studies have shown that queer kids are more at risk for mental health problems including suicide attempts, as well as discrimination and bullying.
This is amplified even more for queer kids of colour. According to the National Coalition of Anti-Violence Programs, 71% of all victims of anti-queer homicides in 2017 were people of colour.
