You may have heard that today’s Oprah will feature “Extraordinary Parents”. In conjunction with that earth shattering news, you probably heard that two men make up one of the astounding parental units. Yeah, two men. They’re named Mark and Andy Sutherland-Trevino. They’re totally gay. And they’re totally remarkable.
So, why are notable enough to grace her royal Oprahness’ stage? According to the introduction to their interview with AfterElton, it’s because they have seven children, all adopted. Sure, it’s nice they adopted all those kids, but seven? That doesn’t make them extraordinary. That makes them total crazies with big hearts.
What we think makes them singularly phenomenal is their connection to an organization called Family Pride: a non-profit which tours the country to educate other gay parents on how to fight discrimination. Of the group’s work, KnoxNews reports:
At the seminar, parents worked to shape their stories into compelling appeals for civil rights. They heard about research on gay and lesbian people who raise children and on the terminology that most appeals to straight Americans.
“Our families are a real political tool,” trainer Trina Olson told the group…
Participants heard about using words and phrases that signal what they have in common with people around them – “being a fair person,” “in it together” and “building strong families” – rather than focusing on gay rights and sexual orientation.
The group hopes to put a more emotional, exceptional spin on the politically divisive issue.
One would think Oprah would use her sensational show do the same. Apparently not: Mark Sutherland-Trevino tells AfterElton the issue didn’t come up, but believe his and Tony’s inclusion in the episode spoke volumes.
How about we take this to the next level?
Our newsletter is like a refreshing cocktail (or mocktail) of LGBTQ+ entertainment and pop culture, served up with a side of eye-candy.
We’d rather Oprah took a stand, but we suppose it’s better than nothing.
(PS: Thanks for the picture, AfterElton.)
Vinman
Way to go Mark and Tony. My partner and I raised one adopted son. My brother and sister-in-law are foster parents to several and have adopted, but SEVEN????? They might be pushing for sainthood, but oh that’s right we gays cannot have a real family according to the Catholic religion.
Leland
Can’t wait to see the Big O about this one. As much as I want to pie her, I do give her credit for being far better with kids and “controversial” issues than adults. She’s a toad with adult transgenders, but was perfection with trans kids. Stranger still since she is emphatic about not wanting kids herself. Now if NATE will just have a kid, maybe she’ll be able to bring herself to utter “gay” and “Nate” in the same show and not parade him like a side of straight beef to the women in wet panties in her studio and at home.
Leland
And, on a gentler note, I want to add how much I am awed by these two guys, even if I hadn’t been adopted myself. And how great that their oldest, who was already identifying as gay at 12, landed on his feet in a loving gay home. Bless them all.
jack e jett
are they for sale?
jack jett
Ash
C’mon, Oprah doesn’t need to take a stand on gay parenting. Having gay parents on the show and NOT making a big deal of it says way more, you know, how actions speak louder than words and all that. Why does she have to advocate? She is treating gay parents as equal to straight parents. How is that not fucking awesome??
David Jacques, Family Pride
We at Family Pride were thrilled to see the mention of Oprah and our OUTSpoken imitative. LGBTQ parents, extended family members and caring allies have all committed to being a part of this groundbreaking and very powerful ensemble in record numbers—815 individuals in 45 states have made the commitment to be OUTSpoken.
On another note, we’re always interested in expanding the voice of our blog (www.familypride.org/blog), so I’d like to extend to you the invitation to be a guest blogger. Please let me know if this is something in which you’d be interested!
Best,
David Jacques
eCommunications Coordinator
Family Pride
[email protected]