NBA legend Dwyane Wade and his wife, actress Gabrielle Union, delivered an emotional acceptance speech at the 2023 NAACP Image Awards. The couple was honored with the prestigious President’s Award, which they dedicated to their 15-year-old daughter, Zaya, who is transgender.
Wade began the speech by acknowledging his daughter’s grace and courage in the face of public scrutiny, thanking her for teaching him the importance of listening with both his ears and eyes. He went on to express his commitment to using his platform to support marginalized communities, particularly the Black trans and LGBTQ community.
In her portion of the speech, Union echoed her husband’s call for action, emphasizing the need for a new era of activism that uplifts all people, especially those who are most vulnerable. She called on the audience to fight for the rights of the Black trans and LGBTQ community and to extend their advocacy beyond just those who are at the top of society.
Wade and Union have been vocal about their commitment to lifting up their blended family, including Zaya, who came out as transgender in 2020. Their message of love and support for their daughter has inspired many, and their call for greater acceptance and understanding of the Black trans and LGBTQ community is an important one.
