Chesterfield Parents Embrace LGBTQ+ Community: Spreading Love at Virginia Pridefest

In a heartwarming display of love and acceptance, Beth and Jerry Carter are breaking barriers and spreading joy at Virginia Pridefest.
A Roller Coaster Journey
Beth and Jerry Carter admit they made mistakes and have regrets after their child, Gray, came out as non-binary. Reflecting on their journey as parents of a child in the LGBTQ+ community, Beth shared, "Our journey has been one of a roller coaster ride being a parent of a child in the LGBTQ+ community."
Major Turning Point
Gray gave their father, Jerry, an ultimatum that changed everything. Jerry recalled, "My child gave me an option one day, several years back, and the light bulb went on my head. Gray told me that I want you in my life, but if you don't want to accept me for the person I am, I'm going to live my life."
Spreading Love at Pridefest
Stepping into a world of acceptance, Beth and Jerry volunteered at their first Virginia Pridefest in 2017 and embraced attendees with dad and mom hugs. Their embrace brought strangers to tears and opened hearts. At 69 and 84 years old, they may be the oldest volunteers at Saturday's Virginia Pridefest, proving that it's never too late to spread love.
Embracing Knowledge
Beth emphasized the importance of education, stating, "Nobody wants to be ignorant. You want information. As an educator, information is key to everything."
A Lesson in Acceptance
Jerry expressed his gratitude for his child, saying, "I'm so thankful for what my queer child has taught me." Their journey led them to attend events at Diversity Richmond, proudly flying the Progress flag outside their home. They will be working the welcome desk at Virginia Pridefest, ready to share their story and answer questions. Joining 50,000 people and 140 vendors, Beth encourages parents to embrace new information and resources about the LGBTQ+ community at Pridefest. Jerry, reflecting on the past, acknowledged the progress made, "Coming through the 40s and 50s and 60s, they had all these derogatory names for the queer community. My child thanked me over and over because of my age—for being open, for being accepting." As they continue spreading love and acceptance, Beth and Jerry Carter are shining examples of parental support in the LGBTQ+ community.