This archive report was first published on 10 July 2020.
As I sit in our living room with my four-and-a-half-year-old daughter, Muna, I'm reminded of the importance of embracing diversity and acceptance. She's busy fixing us a meal in her pretend kitchen, complete with pink plastic burners and yellow plastic spatulas.
As we enjoy her culinary creations, I'm struck by the realization that our societal norms around gender and sexuality are slowly changing. In the West, these distinctions are widely accepted, and it's heartening to see our African society gradually shedding its conservative attitudes and having these uneasy conversations.
As a parent, I'm aware that I must confront my own prejudices and reconcile myself with the possibility that Muna may not identify as female or may not be attracted to boys. Or that our future son may prefer to braid dolls' hair and wear high heels.
It's a daunting prospect, but one that I'm determined to face head-on. I want to create a safe and loving environment for my children to explore their identities and express themselves freely.
As I reflect on the importance of acceptance, I'm reminded of the couple in the US who are raising their child in a gender-neutral manner. They believe that by not imposing traditional gender roles, they're giving their child the freedom to choose their own path when they're ready.
It's a thought-provoking idea, and one that I'm still grappling with. But as I look at Muna, I know that I want to create a world where she can be herself, without fear of judgment or rejection.
