Gabrielle Union is a devoted mother and fierce advocate for her stepdaughter, Zaya Wade,
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who has become an inspirational figure within the LGBTQ+ community since coming out as transgender in 2020.
During a recent appearance on The View, Union opened up about the immense pride she and her husband,
Dwyane Wade, feel for Zaya and their commitment to ensuring she has the freedom to thrive.
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A Mother’s Pride
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Union shared touching details about Zaya’s character and accomplishments, expressing that there are countless things about her that fill them with pride.
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She spoke about the glowing feedback Zaya receives from her teachers, emphasizing how deeply she contributes to her school’s community.
“At her school, her teachers write about what they feel about each student. And every time her teachers write about her, they’re like, ‘I’m actually crying as I’m writing this. You are such a pleasure in class. You add so much to the school community,’” Union recounted. “It’s that that makes us proud.”
Beyond her achievements in the classroom, Union described Zaya as simply a “good human being.” She also revealed that Zaya has ambitious plans for the future, as she is preparing to attend college next year to study astrobiology.
Protecting Zaya’s Rights and Humanity
Union stressed that Zaya’s ability to thrive is rooted in the unwavering love and support she receives from her family. She and Wade have made it their mission to protect their daughter’s rights and ensure she has the freedom to live authentically.
“Who she is is amazing, but it’s because we love her so much and we protect her freedom and her humanity and her rights that she’s allowed to blossom,” Union explained.
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She went on to highlight the impact that Zaya’s journey has had on people of all ages, sharing that she often receives messages from individuals who wish they had been given the same freedom to express their true selves when they were younger.
“When we get compliments on who she is and who she stands for and who she represents, it’s not just the LGBTQIA community. Elderly people come up to me [and say], ‘I wish my parents gave me the freedom to live my full truth and to reach my full potential, and I’m so glad that she’s doing this at such a young age.’”
Union noted that Zaya’s openness has been an inspiration to so many, encouraging people to embrace their true selves regardless of their age or background.
“She’s inspiring so many people to live their complete truth, and we are more than proud,” she added.
Zaya’s Journey of Self-Discovery
Zaya’s journey has been one of self-awareness and education. In a 2020 interview on Good Morning America, Dwyane Wade revealed that Zaya had expressed her gender identity from a young age.
“Zaya knew two things: She knew straight and she knew gay,” Wade said at the time. “But Zaya started doing more research. She was the one who sat down with us as a family and said, ‘Hey, I don’t think I’m gay.’ And she went down the list and said, ‘This is how I identify myself. This is my gender identity. I identify myself as a young lady.’”
Since then, Zaya has continued to advocate for transgender visibility and self-expression, using her platform to empower others.
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Gabrielle Union and Dwyane Wade’s Unwavering Support
Union and Wade have been vocal about their commitment to standing by Zaya and advocating for trans rights. They have publicly spoken out against legislation that targets transgender youth and have used their platform to educate others about the importance of acceptance.
Their approach to parenting is rooted in love, understanding, and the belief that every child deserves to be seen, heard, and supported. Their dedication to Zaya’s well-being has not only helped her flourish but has also set an example for families everywhere on the importance of unconditional love.
As Zaya prepares for the next chapter of her life, Union and Wade remain steadfast in their mission to protect her freedom and humanity—ensuring that she, and others like her, can continue to thrive without fear.
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