This week, Dwyane Wade opened up to Ellen DeGeneres about his 12-year-old coming out as transgender.
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"Zaya, our 12-year-old, came home ... I don't know if everybody knows, originally named Zion — Zion, born as a boy — came home and said, 'Hey, so I want to talk to you guys. I think, going forward, I'm ready to live my truth, and I want to be referenced as "she" and "her." I would love for you guys to call me Zaya.'"
Dwyane expressed how important it was for him and his wife, Gabrielle Union, to support Zaya.
Zaya's older brother, Zaire, also wanted to show support — and he did so with a beautiful tribute to his sibling on Instagram.
"Man, I remember bugging my mom as a kid telling her I wanted a brother so bad. I was the only child looking for company and someone to look after and take care of," Zaire wrote.
"I have been blessed to have my best friend, Zaya, with me for 12 years. We did everything together — we fought, we played, we laughed, and we cried. But the one thing we never did was leave each other behind."
"I’ve told you that I would lay my life down to make sure you are 10 toes down and happy on this earth. I don’t care what they think, Z. You are my best friend, and I love you, kid. And if it means anything, just know there’s no love lost on this side ✊🏾."
Zaire's post is what having a sibling is all about. Props 👏!
