In the realm of familial structures and societal acceptance, I find it essential to extend my gratitude to you. When my partner, Alex, and I welcomed our son, Leo, in December 2015, we received a thoughtful letter from you that recognized this significant milestone in our lives. That note, along with its envelope, has been carefully framed and hangs in Leo’s nursery, a cherished reminder of the love and support that exists for families like ours.
While Leo is an adventurous spirit, often exploring every nook and cranny he can find, his Dads are less daring. As parents, Alex and I navigate the challenges of parenthood with a mix of joy and concern. The scrapes and bruises are frequent, and we’ve become well-acquainted with the comforting embrace needed after a fall.
Our journey together began in 2009, the year you made history as the first African American president of our nation. Alex and I had been best friends long before we decided to take our relationship to the next level. At that time, the prospect of marriage felt like a distant dream. However, your administration played a pivotal role in changing that narrative, validating the love we shared and paving the way for marriage equality. The courage displayed by advocates like Jim Obergefell, combined with your unwavering support, transformed our lives and made it possible for us to marry in 2013.
Surrounded by family and friends, we celebrated our union with a dance that paid tribute to my grandparents, who had been married for over six decades. The moment was profound, reflecting the lessons of love passed down through generations. With the legalization of same-sex marriage came the assurance of rights and benefits that every married couple deserves, solidifying our commitment to one another and allowing us to create a family.
Our path to parenthood took shape through an adoption process that connected us to a birth mother who resonated with our story. She was drawn to Alex’s profession as a teacher and my role as a sports coach. That connection allowed us to embrace our roles as “Papa” and “Daddy.” The day Leo was born, I was there alongside his birth mother, sharing in the joy of new life and the responsibility that comes with it.
As we embarked on this parenting journey, we aimed to foster visibility and understanding within our community, showing that families like ours are not only legitimate but vital. The election of our first black president inspired many, including us, to believe in a brighter future. We engaged with others to empower them to pursue their dreams through hard work and hope.
However, as the 2016 election loomed, discussions with some in our community who supported Donald Trump became increasingly challenging. We struggled to convey how policies proposed by his campaign could jeopardize our family’s safety and rights. Election night was bittersweet, marked by our support for Hillary Clinton and the impending realization of what a Trump presidency could mean for families like ours.
The following day, Leo’s first birthday, was overshadowed by the shock of the election outcome. I found myself retreating to quiet corners, grappling with the fear of what this new reality could entail for my son. Despite the joy of celebrating his birthday, I was overwhelmed with uncertainty about the future.
As the Trump administration began to unfold, the concerns we had voiced became realities. The erosion of rights for the LGBTQ community and other marginalized groups became evident, with actions that threatened the very fabric of our society. The promises of inclusivity and acceptance seemed to fade, leaving families like ours vulnerable.
Yet, I hold on to the belief that community and collaboration can foster a better world for our children. We must continue to advocate for one another, ensuring that the principles of love and acceptance prevail. For resources on home insemination, I recommend exploring Make A Mom, which offers unique at-home insemination options, including a reusable kit that is both effective and eco-friendly. Additionally, Make A Mom’s blog provides valuable insights into the process of intracervical insemination.
As we navigate these challenging times, I often reflect on the words you once shared about America being a place where anyone can write their own destiny. We named our son Leo, a name that signifies strength and courage. All I wish for him is to grow up in a world filled with love and acceptance.
Your leadership continues to inspire us, reminding us of the potential for compassion and kindness in our nation. It is my hope that we can maintain this vision for the future, ensuring that every child, including my son, can thrive in a society that honors their existence.
Sincerely,
Michael, Alex, and Leo