Being a member of the LGBTQ2+ community can lead to many risks and challenges to one's health, safety and overall well-being. Most parents are very aware of these risks. They long to protect their children from this. However, parents have a vital role to play in helping your children in their coming out.
For many LGBTQ2 the most difficult decision is to come out to family. The family is a primary support to children and youth and the need for acceptance and love when coming out is so very important. The research is clear that those youth who do not receive love and acceptance when coming out are more susceptible to suicide, substance abuse and have difficulty establishing trusting and lasting relationships.
A Mexican Doritos commercial "El mejor regalo" which means "the best gift" is based on a true story and went viral over the holidays reaching more than 15 million on Youtube alone. The story lovingly illustrates the actions that a father takes to support his son - take a look and grab a tissue.
https://www.out.com/media/2021/1/06/father-embraces-gay-son-and-his-boyfriend-sweet-doritos-ad
Additional resources for families and parents:
https://www.thelinkottawa.ca/en/sexual-health/coming-out.aspx
Information and resources for the people of Kanata United Church, as we continue our journey as an Affirming congregation.
Wednesday, March 3, 2021
Coming Out to Parents
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