Share

Gabrielle Union learns about transgender issues after her 12-year-old son opens up about being transgender

accreditation
Gabrielle Union and Dwayne Wade France. Photographed by Berthelot
Gabrielle Union and Dwayne Wade France. Photographed by Berthelot
Berthelot

Gabrielle Union’s husband Dwayne Wade has revealed that his wife spoke to the cast of FX show 'Pose' after his daughter Zaya, 12, came out as transgender.

Also see: 'Dating a bisexual man is like being with any other guy' - you might be missing out on great partners if sexuality is a deal-breaker, study reveals

“I don’t know if everyone knows, [she was] originally named Zion. Zion born as a boy, came home and said, ‘Hey, so, I want to talk to you guys. I think going forward, I’m ready to live my truth and I want to be referenced as she and her. I’d love for you guys to call me Zaya’, ” Dwayne says.

“So, that was our job to go out and get information to reach out to every relationship we have. My wife reached out to everybody on the cast of Pose. We just tried to figure out as much information as we could, to make sure we give our child the best opportunity to be her best self” he explained.

Also read: 'I live every day with suicidal thoughts' - this transwoman faces discrimination in her efforts to find work after retrenchment

“Once Zion came home and said, ‘call me Zaya’ and was ready to take on this, I looked at her and said ‘you are leader. It’s our opportunity to allow you to be a voice.’ Right now it’s through us, because she’s 12 years old, but eventually it will be through her,” he said. 

The proud parents believe it is their 'duty' to help her through this journey. 

Watch the video above for more

Compiled for Parent24 by Futhi Masilel

Chat back:

Share your stories with us. Anonymous contributions are welcome.

WhatsApp: Send messages and voicenotes to 066 010 0325

Email: Share your story with us via email at chatback @ parent24.com

Twitter: Twitter.com/Parent24

Facebook: Facebook.com/Parent24/

Instagram: Instagram.com/parent24

Sign up for Parent24's newsletters.

We live in a world where facts and fiction get blurred
Who we choose to trust can have a profound impact on our lives. Join thousands of devoted South Africans who look to News24 to bring them news they can trust every day. As we celebrate 25 years, become a News24 subscriber as we strive to keep you informed, inspired and empowered.
Join News24 today
heading
description
username
Show Comments ()
Editorial feedback and complaints

Contact the public editor with feedback for our journalists, complaints, queries or suggestions about articles on News24.

LEARN MORE