Parenting a Non-binary Child: “They Know They Always Have My Support”

This is Where We Share Our Stories

As part of Baxter's commitment to fostering an inclusive workplace, we sat down with Chantal Draer, a longtime employee and parent of a non-binary child to learn more about their parenting journey and how they show up for their LGBTQ+ child.

What does being non-binary look like for your child, and how has the experience been?

My child is 14 and does not identify as a traditional girl. Today, teenagers tend not to put or use labels on each other, and they believe, "You can be who you want to be."

They know they always have my support. If later, they have a different belief, view, or position, then that is equally fine because I have done everything as a parent for them to find out who they are. Unfortunately, in the past, I have had to go out of my way to stand up for them when others mislabeled them because of their gender expression.

Chantal Draer (right), makes sure her child knows she will always support them

What does this mean for you as a parent?

As a parent, I've faced a lot of challenges. With the help from the LGBTQI community and our Pride Business Resource Group at Baxter, I am guiding them as best I can, but as a parent, it's important to educate yourself and advocate for your child.

At the end of the day, we all have a responsibility to make sure no one has to live in fear because of who they love or how they identify themselves.

“If later, they have a different belief, view, or position, then that is equally fine because I have done everything as a parent for them to find out who they are.”

What have been the key learnings for you?

When it comes to your kids, it's best to be open and honest. Don't fight it; sit them down and talk openly. Unfortunately, due to misinformation and ignorance, they felt they couldn't speak to their father [we are divorced] about the subject. Until recently, they hid their relationship/ identity for fear of being made fun of.

What resources are available that can help support those going through a similar experience?

I had great help and information from our Baxter Pride BRG (Adam Sangster, Simon Holmes and Josh Wahlers) I also received support by visiting the charity ‘Welcome – FFLAG’, who supports parents and families of the LGBTQ+ community.

“At the end of the day, we all have a responsibility to make sure no one has to live in fear because of who they love or how they identify themselves.”