Dwyane Wade Speaks on Importance of Supporting Son’s Participation in Miami Pride

Dwyane Wade has addressed why it was meaningful for him to support his younger son going to a pride parade this spring, Variety reports.

In April, Wade’s 12-year-old-son Zion shared photos of himself attending the annual Miami Beach Pride march with his siblings and stepmother, Gabrielle Union. Wade, who was at an away game in Toronto, shared a photo on his Instagram Stories with the caption, “We support each other with Pride!” 

Zion’s older brother Zaire also showed support by sharing photos of them at the parade on his Instagram Story and writing, “Love you lil bro no matter what.”

“I don’t really talk about it much because it’s Zion’s story to tell,” Wade told Variety. “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.”

When asked if he had any advice for parents during Pride month, Wade said, “I’m asked a question about my kids a lot from a sports perspective.” He continued, “I think people expect you to parent each kid 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.”

Wade said he was surprised when he received backlash on social media. “This is my job as a father,” Wade said. “I’m very uneasy about accolades that come from supporting my kids or the negativity that comes from it. I’m doing what every parent has to do. Once you bring kids into this world, you become unselfish. It’s my job to be their role model, to be their voice in my kids’ lives, to let them know you can conquer the world. So, go and be your amazing self and we’re going to sit back and just love you.”