New York City — Actor Liev Schreiber recently opened up about the experience of supporting his daughter, Kai, who is navigating her identity as a transgender teen. In a candid conversation, Schreiber noted that Kai, now 16, has always been true to herself, revealing that the pivotal moment for him and his ex-partner, Naomi Watts, was when she requested to change her pronouns.
Kai is set to join her father and his wife, Taylor, at an upcoming gala organized by the Ali Forney Center, which focuses on providing housing and essential services to homeless LGBTQ youth. The center currently supports over 2,200 young individuals daily, offering resources through its 24/7 Drop-In Center and a network of emergency and transitional housing facilities.
Although Kai has enjoyed success in the modeling world, recently walking the runway for Valentino, Schreiber emphasized the importance of using their platform to support those who are less fortunate. “This isn’t merely about visibility for the trans community,” he remarked. “Many individuals lack access to crucial resources and protection from their families, facing rejection and some of the harshest realities of life.”
Schreiber stressed the responsibility that comes with visibility in a glamorous setting. “As we prepare for events and present ourselves positively, we must remember we’re raising funds for a community that urgently needs our help,” he explained.
Kai has embraced her identity with confidence, according to Schreiber. “She’s a warrior,” he shared. “It’s crucial for her to assert, ‘I am trans,’ and take pride in her identity.” Schreiber’s pride in Kai’s strength resonates deeply as both a father and an advocate.
When approached for advice to other parents of transgender teens, Schreiber thoughtfully acknowledged the unique challenges they face. “Every child is different, and their experiences are shaped by various factors,” he said, reflecting on the complexities of parenting a teenager, regardless of their gender identity. “Teenagers can be quite challenging,” he added humorously, highlighting that the struggles of adolescence are universal.
Schreiber remains aware of the political climate surrounding transgender rights, including recent Supreme Court decisions affecting transgender service members. Though troubled by these developments, he remains optimistic. “I prefer not to dwell on fear or anxiety,” he noted. “There’s already so much to worry about in the world.”
This supportive stance emphasizes his commitment to fostering a nurturing environment for Kai, who is finding her voice and identity amidst societal challenges. For those interested in supporting LGBTQ youth, more information about the Ali Forney Center and its initiatives can be found on their official website.