Growing up, I never imagined I’d one day be writing this with so much pride and peace in my heart. As a millennial gay uncle—or “guncle,” as we lovingly say—I’ve lived through the quiet fears, the awkward silences, and the unspoken truths that often surround queerness in family spaces. But today, I live in a home filled with openness, acceptance, and love. And a big part of that transformation started with a simple, honest question from a 7-year-old boy, one summer evening, in a swimming pool.
I was enjoying the warm pool water. My nephew and I were splashing around, laughing like we always did. Out of nowhere, he looked at me with those curious, innocent eyes and asked, “Tito Dad, are you gay?” No hesitation. No judgment. Just curiosity.
I didn’t flinch. I smiled and said, “Yes, I am.” And I said it with pride.
That moment was more than just a conversation—it was a turning point. I had spent so much of my youth dreading interactions with male relatives, fearing their confrontations, their probing questions, and the subtle (and sometimes not-so-subtle) ways they made me feel like I didn’t belong. It was harassing. It was painful. It made me shrink.
But with my nephew, I chose to be different, to be honest, to be me.
He blinked, then said something that made me laugh: “But you look like a man!” In his young mind, being gay must’ve looked a certain way—and apparently, I didn’t fit the mold. Sorry to debunk your belief, beloved nephew. Your uncle is gay. You have a "guncle."
What happened next was nothing short of beautiful. That little boy became my fiercest defender. Whenever the topic of sexuality came up, he’d proudly say, “There’s nothing wrong with being gay.” He grew up with a deep sense of acceptance, awareness, and empathy. He understood diversity and inclusion in a way that many adults still struggle with.
Now, I live with my family in a space where I can introduce my boyfriend without fear or awkwardness. It feels normal. It feels easy. It feels right.
This Pride, I celebrate the new generation, kids like my nephew, who are growing up with open hearts and open minds. I celebrate the courage it takes to be honest, even when it’s hard. And I celebrate the joy of living authentically, not just for myself, but for every queer kid who deserves to feel safe, seen, and loved.
To all the "guncles" out there: keep showing up. Keep being you. You never know whose world you’re changing just by being visible.
Happy Pride.
