Dwayne Wade & Gabrielle Union powerfully call for Black trans rights at NAACP Awards

Dwayne Wade and Gabrielle Union received the President’s Award recognizing their “special achievement and distinguished public service” at Saturday’s 2023 NAACP Image Awards. The couple — whose advocacy work includes efforts supporting Black-owned small businesses and community organizations, empowering communities of color, and ending gun violence — used their joint acceptance speech to spotlight Black transgender people at a time when trans rights are under attack across the United States.

Speaking first, Wade delivered a moving tribute to his daughter Zaya, who is trans.

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“So many people … really truly feel like their kids are disposable. If they’re not perfect images of them, they’re not interested. And it’s heartbreaking,” Union told Ellen.

“Zaya, as your father, all I’ve wanted to do was get it right,” Wade said. “I’ve sat back and watched how gracefully you’ve taken on the public scrutiny. And even though it’s not easy, I watched you walk out of that house every morning as yourself. I admire how you’ve handled the ignorance in our world.”

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“As your father, my job isn’t to create a version of myself or direct your future,” he continued. “My role is to be a facilitator to your hopes, your wishes, and your dreams. Zaya, you’ve made me a better human just simply by being who you were born to be: our baby girl, Zaya Wade. So, baby, thank you for showing the world what courage looks like. I’m proud that I was chosen to stand in place as your father.”

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In her speech, Union spoke more broadly and forcefully about the need to recognize and support Black trans people.

It's the Black love for me!