I was a senior in high school when Caitlyn won her gold medal at the 1976 Olympics. Her victory in the decathlon provided a positive role model for our nation—and created a hero for me. Having the courage to come out at this stage of her life makes her an even bigger hero.
My daughter Nicole is also my hero. As a child, she came out innocently. She didn’t know that people would fear her. Caitlyn did know the consequences of coming out. Because no matter where you come from, how famous you might be or how much money you have, letting America see you in such a vulnerable way is daring and admirable—not self-serving.
I have the greatest respect for her courage and commitment to truth. The courage that she displays is helping challenge society to change. I am so pleased that she has fulfilled her dreams and that she is now helping our children do the same.
Maines is a father and transgender-rights activist in Maine
- Supreme Court Overturns Roe v. Wade, Undoing Constitutional Right to Abortion
- What the Supreme Court’s Abortion Decision Means for Your State
- The Failure of the Feminist Industrial Complex
- The Fight Over Abortion Has Only Just Begun
- Column: How Stereotypes Shape the Language People Use
- Everything We Know About Beyoncé's New Album, Renaissance
- Homes Made from Straw or Fungi Can Now Get You a Cheaper Mortgage in the Netherlands
- Going on Vacation This Summer? Welcome to the 'Revenge Travel' Economy
