Dwyane Wade opened up about his parenting style and the accompanying social media backlash in an interview with Variety.
Wade's son, Zion, attended Miami Pride with family. The social media posts sparked invasive and homophobic questions about Wade’s parenting style.
The NBA star opened up about the public support he’s shown to his son. “I think as a family, we should support each other. That’s our job. And my job as a father is to facilitate their lives and to support them and be behind them in whatever they want to do,” Wade told Variety.
Actress and stepmom, Gabrielle Union was in attendance at Miami Pride.
During the interview, Wade encouraged other parents to recognize their children as individuals, “I think people expect you to parent each kids the same. They are all different, and I have to get to know them and where they are. I have to say to most parents, get to know your kids. Don’t put your wants and needs on them."
The social implications of Wade, a heterosexual Black male athlete, showing public support for his son’s sexuality has been widely discussed on social media.
Wade also added that both the props and the backlash on social media has made him uncomfortable. "I’m doing what every parent has to do.” he said. “So, go and be your amazing self and we’re going to sit back and just love you."
