The tradition usually goes as follows: get an awesome gift for Dad that he’ll love (perhaps a nice watch, his favorite cologne, a top-of-the-line grill, maybe), congratulate him on being the best dad ever, and finally, let him enjoy his day (even if that means watching ESPN all day long). But Texas State Senator, Juan “Chuy” Hinojosa had something different in mind this past Father’s Day. Instead of being on the receiving end this year, Hinojosa decided to give something to his lesbian daughter and it involved a very touching, heart-warming letter.
He wrote:
“Dear Kris,
From the moment you breathed life, when you first smiled up at me, I knew how strong the love of a father could be. An unconditional love for such an innocent child that only a father could know. As you began to grow, I hoped for a safe environment for you and wanted to protect you from the harsh realities of this unjust world.
But as you matured into a strong young woman, I began to realize there were cruelties I could not protect you from — simply because of your sexual orientation. I could not protect you from the discrimination, ignorance or hate.
I knew that we discriminated in our country against women until they were given the right to vote. We discriminate, and often continue to do so, against African-Americans, those of Jewish decent, and Hispanics. However, I was unprepared for the discrimination you would experience for being gay.
As your journey into adulthood revealed that you are gay, it made no difference to me. You are still my daughter. You did not change. I will always love and support you unconditionally. Fathers love their children who have physical disabilities, intellectual disabilities or are multi-ethnic. There are all kinds of children. A father’s love is without end. Why would sexual orientation change anything?
I know you have encountered many challenges and struggles because of your sexuality, but I also know that my love has given you strength and courage. Views are changing as people begin to accept and understand that same-sex couples are part of our communities, culture and country. They live in our communities, work in our communities, attend church in our communities, and volunteer for our military where they fight for our freedom and liberty. They are our sons and daughters, brothers and sisters, and colleagues and friends. Same-sex couples should be allowed the freedom to marry one another and be treated with dignity and respect.
It saddens me to know that you live your life in a society that views you as “different,” or as someone who should not enjoy the same basic rights as a straight person does. You are my daughter — you deserve the same love and acceptance and to share in the same freedoms to marry the person you love.
As a society we should not tolerate acts of discrimination, hate or violence for any reason. We are all equals. I remain committed to the cause of equality and most importantly in fighting to protect you and the children of all fathers. All men and women should have the freedom to choose their partner.
As you are all grown up now, you will still always be my little girl. I am very proud of you. I hope one day that you, too, can experience the love for a child. And I hope one day that your children will live in a world where they will not need protection for wanting to marry who they love.
With love,
Dad “
Just last year, the senator filed a bill that would legalize civil unions for same-sex couples. Unfortunately, the bill did not pass, but Senator Hinojosa, who represents Texas’ District 20, remains, “committed to the cause of equality.” The open letter addressed to his daughter, Kris, further proves his unwavering support.
We love special moments that display compassion, acceptance, and growth and we tip our hat to father and senator Juan “Chuy” Hinojosa for publishing such a brave and heartfelt letter.
