Talking with their children about discrimination, the law, and what it means for their family is something same-sex parents all handle differently.

Some introduce the concept when their children are small. Others are forced to address it when something happens—like if a parent is discriminated against or fired from their job because they’re gay.

Rob and Clay Calhoun, who have careers in public education and corporate America, haven’t shied away from discussing discrimination with their two kids: Rainey, 14, and Jimmy, 11.

They really can’t shy away, because employment discrimination could affect their family at any time.

“Our two beloved kids are stunned that either of their parents can be legally fired from our jobs simply for being gay.”
–ROB CALHOUN

“Our two beloved kids are stunned that either of their parents can be legally fired from our jobs simply for being gay,” Rob says. “Without statewide non-discrimination protections, this is a fact of life.”