Dwyane Wade and Gabrielle Union: Unwavering Support for Zaya Wade
Dwyane Wade, the former NBA star, alongside his wife Gabrielle Union, showcased their steadfast commitment to their daughter Zaya Wade during the Out100 2024 gala. This exclusive event celebrates prominent LGBTQ+ figures making a difference in society. The trio was seen exuding joy as they graced the red carpet together.
A Stylish Appearance
Zaya, who is 17 years old and has openly identified as transgender since 2020, impressed attendees with her fashionable choice: a black Lena Jacket Dress designed by Ronny Kobo featuring chic leopard fur embellishments and Mary Jane shoes. Her straight hair complemented her simple yet elegant look adorned with a single gold ring on her finger.
Dwyane opted for a stylish ensemble too, wearing a white sweater underneath a dark denim jacket paired with dark trousers. Meanwhile, Gabrielle captured attention in a trendy green and brown gingham dress accessorized by an elegant white clutch.
Celebrating Trailblazers
As an advocate for LGBTQ+ rights over the past several years, Zaya was honored at the Out100 gala as one of this year’s trailblazers. She received recognition alongside noteworthy figures like singer Cynthia Erivo — awarded the title of 2024 Out100 Icon of the Year — and acclaimed actress Sheryl Lee Ralph.
Both Dwyane and Union have emerged as strong proponents for equality within the LGBTQ+ community. They have worked to mentor other parents on how they can support their children who may identify beyond traditional norms. Together with Zaya, they established “Translatable,” an online platform catering to LGBTQ+ youth where users can share content in a safe environment.
Committed Advocacy
Earlier this year in May, Dwyane earned recognition through the Elevate Prize Catalyst Award for his tireless advocacy concerning transgender issues. During his acceptance speech, he emphasized that he is merely “a parent doing what any good parent would” while highlighting that family values form an integral part of who they are.
“This is simply about our family’s mission …,” he stated during his speech. “For us to effect change in this world requires compassion and understanding.”
Reflecting on Zaya’s journey into adolescence amid unique challenges not asked for—he stated candidly: “She wishes just to engage in typical childhood pursuits without external pressures… But informed by her own experiences thus far she is now considering broader societal matters; I couldn’t be prouder.”
Creating Open Communication
Wade also remarked on fostering open dialogue within families: “As parents you wish your children feel secure discussing their feelings when faced with uncertainty.” He stressed that nurturing such communication leads children to confide in you rather than others outside your immediate circle — underscoring its importance within familial bonds.
In celebration of Zaya’s recent birthday milestone back in May, Dwyane took to social media sharing heartfelt images capturing memories from past years along with recent ones showcasing her blossoming personality— captioning it simply “Seventeen 🎉 @zayawade.” Similarly expressing love over social platforms was Union whose nostalgic posts depicted moments shared between them over time buoyed by affection— captioned poignantly “17 🖤 @zayawade.”
