As parents, we all have our opinions about tween clothing stores like Justice. Sure, they can be pricey, overly sparkly, and the music often makes you want to pull your hair out. But recently, Justice gave us a reason to cheer them on after they helped a gender non-conforming child embrace their true self. Grab your tissues — this one’s a tearjerker!
A mother named Jenna Parker, who writes a blog called Creative Gender Life, shared a touching experience she had with her 10-year-old son, who doesn’t conform to traditional gender norms. In an open letter posted on Facebook, Jenna recounted a recent trip to Justice that quickly went viral, and once you see the joy on her son’s face, you’ll understand why.
The Journey to Justice
Jenna began her letter by explaining that her son has dreamt of shopping at Justice since he was just four years old, tagging along with his big sister. However, they had stayed away from the store for years, opting instead for the boys’ department, which left her son feeling dejected. “Back-to-school shopping felt like a chore he dreaded,” she writes. Each time they ventured to Target next door, he’d gaze longingly at Justice, sighing, “I wish I could shop there,” but the store’s “Just for girls” sign kept them away.
Jenna’s family has been committed to supporting their son, who might one day identify as LGBTQ+ or may not. What matters most is that he is happy and true to himself, without causing harm to anyone. They were planning a trip to Justice on March 23, the day after the controversial HB2 law came into effect in North Carolina, which made Jenna worry about its implications for her son should he transition.
A Long-Awaited Trip
The summer passed with Jenna’s son settling for a few pairs of Twinkle Toe sneakers and a cute pink backpack, but the desire to shop at Justice lingered. During a meeting with a support group for parents of gender non-conforming children, Jenna voiced her concerns about the store’s branding. Thankfully, a “hero” mom friend named Lisa stepped in, visiting the store and speaking with the manager, Sarah, to ask whether a boy would be allowed to try on clothes.
After receiving a Justice e-gift card from another supportive friend, Jenna and her son finally made the long-awaited trip. Though they arrived just before closing time, Sarah greeted them warmly, ready to assist in selecting clothing. Jenna’s son was in awe of the options before him, and Sarah quickly took on the role of his personal shopper for the evening.
A Transformative Experience
The transformation was incredible. “As soon as he tried on his first outfit, he posed in front of the mirror, twirling to see the skirt flare out — it was pure joy,” Jenna wrote. She noticed her son’s demeanor shift dramatically; he transformed from a child weighed down by uncertainty to one who radiated confidence and happiness in his new clothes.
Jenna couldn’t thank Sarah enough for making her son feel beautiful and free from judgment. “I rarely get to see my son being his true self in public, but she encouraged that,” Jenna shared. They left the store with bags full of clothes and smiles that could light up the room.
The Joy of Acceptance
In the end, Jenna’s son expressed it perfectly, “I think my cheeks hurt from smiling so much when we left.” Kudos to Justice for creating an inclusive space that made this mom and her son feel welcomed and accepted. As any parent knows, there’s no greater gift than seeing your child happy.
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In summary, Jenna’s heartfelt account of her son’s experience at Justice clothing store highlights the importance of inclusivity and acceptance in retail spaces. The support from the store manager transformed a long-held dream into a joyful reality, reminding us all of the power of affirmation and understanding.