What Tammy Plunkett Learned Raising 4 LGBTQIA+ Kids

Diversity Inclusion LGBTQIA Social Issues

Tammy Plunkett never expected to have children that would challenge her understanding of gender identity. But that’s exactly what occurred. Her story is not just about being a parent; it’s about becoming a pillar of support, an advocate for change, and a student in the dynamic classroom of life. Tammy joined host Jennifer Norman on The Human Beauty Movement Podcast for a candid conversation where she bared her personal journey raising four LGBTQIA+ kids, revealing an authentic look into the nuances of her family’s experiences – the struggles and triumphs intimately woven into their collective fabric.

Parenting LGBTQIA+ Kids

The initial revelation of her child coming out as trans stirred a myriad of mixed emotions for Tammy and her husband. Their immediate alignment on wanting the best for all their children set the stage for their approach towards embracing science, valuing medical professionals, and solidifying their belief in the power of therapy. Their parenting styles may differ – Tammy with her external processing and her husband with his internal ways – yet, they are united when it comes to showing up for their kids. For Tammy, the profound impetus behind penning Beyond Pronouns: The Essential Guide for Parents of Trans Children* stemmed from the whirlwind of emotions she experienced herself. Her sense of grief, alongside the overwhelming response from other parents in similar straits, crystallized the need for a guide – a beacon to navigate the emotional and practical facets of welcoming social transition for a younger child.

Rules of the Road for Transition

Through her book, Tammy underlines a philosophy akin to a child driving the bus, making decisions about their transition with their parents setting ‘rules of the road’ to ensure the child’s utmost safety. This metaphor rings true for any parent striving to find the delicate balance between allowing their child autonomy and ensuring they’re protected and guided.

In our conversation, she shares practical aspects such as navigating discussions with family members, liaising with schools, co-parenting, and the often overlooked yet crucial component of self-care for parents. These narratives are stitched with a thread of empathy and understanding that can only come from someone who’s walked the journey.

Supporting Inclusivity in Organizations

Tammy’s advocacy doesn’t stop at the boundaries of her home. She extends her support to organizations keen on creating inclusive environments for trans individuals. During the podcast, we delve into the importance of genuine allyship and confronting unconscious bias. It’s not enough to open doors; we must ensure that the space behind them is a true sanctuary for all.

Together, we discuss the significance of cultivating an inclusive culture within organizations. This transformative process involves weaving diversity, equity, and inclusion into the very fabric of a company’s core values and culture. It’s not merely a box to be ticked or about tokenism; it demands authenticity and integration into policies, procedures, and the routine ebb and flow of daily operations.

The use of inclusive language is crucial. Every word spoken or written is a building block in the structure of an organization’s culture. Straying from language that excludes non-binary individuals is a critical step towards a more accepting world.

Diversity vs. Inclusion

It’s imperative to distinguish diversity from inclusion. As Tammy eloquently expresses as the mom of four LGBTQIA+ kids and as a certified allyship coach, genuine belonging and equal opportunities for all individuals within an organization are at the heart of true inclusivity. Embracing diversity is but the first stride on the marathon to full inclusion.

Throughout our dialogue, the themes of empathy and respect are amplified. By elevating the voices of marginalized populations, we can steer toward a harmonious and truly inclusive environment – a mission close to the heart of The Human Beauty Movement.

Through this episode, we spotlight the exceptional journey that Tammy Plunkett, her children, and her family have traversed. However, this narrative is not only about the LGBTQIA+ community but about the broader quest for acceptance and the beauty in human diversity.

I invite you, with a warm heart and an open mind, to immerse yourself in the full depth and breadth of this conversation by tuning in to this episode of The Human Beauty Movement Podcast. Through Tammy’s insights, we hope you’ll be open to a realm of new understanding and, perhaps, find yourself changed by the experience.

Be sure to listen, follow, rate, review, and most importantly, share this story of love, resilience, and transformative learning with others. The ripples of change begin with our willingness to listen to voices like Tammy’s and to heed the call for a world adorned with acceptance and beauty in all its forms.