Gabrielle Union joined Taraji P. Henson‘s new Facebook Watch show, Peace of Mind, to discuss all things mental health. During their chat, Gabrielle opened up about her stepdaughter Zaya coming out as trans.
The 13-year-old daughter of Gabrielle’s husband Dwyane Wade bravely came out earlier this year and her family has been incredibly supportive.
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“Zaya’s peace is non-negotiable,” Gabrielle shared. “As Zaya gathered more language, she was able to tell us about her identity. She was able to tell us about her sexuality. She was able to tell us, ‘I’m trans.’ She says, ‘I’ve come out a few times. I came out to my teacher in third grade. And then, when you guys posted that picture of me in Chicago at my birthday party.'”
The photo she was referring to was one of Gabrielle and Zaya posing with a birthday cake earlier this year. The internet quickly speculated about Zaya’s gender identity, causing her to feel “outed.”
The actress admitted that she still has a lot to learn. “We only know what we know. You have to be open to embrace what we don’t know.”
We’re completely in awe of this family, their support for one another, and their willingness to have important conversations.