The LGBT citizens of our nation are reeling after the presidential election. What does a Trump presidency mean for our community? Will the gains that we have made be undone?
During my thirty years as a lawyer and gay rights activist I have seen great progress. By being out and proud, we have introduced ourselves to the world. Our friends, families and colleagues have accepted us. Our places of worship have welcomed us. In only a few decades our movement has made great strides, not only in the courts with victories like gay marriage, but also in the culture. As the future unfolds, this cultural shift will be impossible to undo.
The best messengers to overcome ignorance and hate will be the children who are being raised by LGBT parents. They are today’s ambassadors. They are tomorrow’s voice of reason. I am not saying that things will be easy. I am saying that progress will continue. As we face an uncertain future, it is so important that we protect ourselves, each other, and our children.
Currently, gay marriage is the law of the land. As legal partners we should have all spousal rights and responsibilities. Yet, the Texas legislature is already trying to limit the scope of our marriages. We need to insure that we can exercise our rights, such as making medical decisions, by having written documents – just in case someone doesn’t respect our marriage. The “Resources” section of my website has many documents available – for free. Just print, fill in the blanks, and sign. It’s that simple.
As parents, one of our greatest fears is losing contact with our children. In this time of uncertainty, it is especially important that we create stable legal bonds. A written agreement is not enough. A birth certificate with two names is not enough.
Only “birth or adoption” will establish an undeniable, parent-child connection and that bond is strong even if you are LGBT. The strength of this legal principle was shown just this year, in 2016 the U.S. Supreme Court, in the case of V.L. v E.L., unanimously upheld a lesbian adoption and directed the courts in all 50 states to give that adoption “full faith and credit.
As our community faces an uncertain future, we can rest assured about one thing; our relationship with our birth or adopted children is solid. If you are a parent, hug your child and say, “I love you.” Then, let that love be your inspiration in the days ahead.