Oscar-winning Actress Stands Strong Against Adversity, Advocates for Trans Rights
By Dolores Quintana
In a heartfelt interview on MSNBC’s Morning Joe, Oscar-winning actress Jamie Lee Curtis expressed her unwavering support for her transgender daughter, Ruby Guest, during an interview with Joe Scarborough. The interview was recorded before the announcement of the SAG AFTRA strike.
Curtis spoke passionately about the importance of love in life and parenthood, stressing that being a parent is about unconditionally loving one’s children. To her, Ruby’s gender identity revelation was a moment of affirmation and acceptance. She emphasized that Ruby is her daughter, a human being deserving of love and respect, and Curtis proudly stands by her side.
The actress made it clear that she is ready to defend Ruby’s right to exist against any individuals who challenge or deny her identity. Curtis acknowledged that society can be challenging for transgender individuals, especially in the face of hurtful political rhetoric. Despite the adversity, she remains determined to be a supportive and protective mother.
Curtis said, as quoted by The Advocate, “This life is about love. Being a parent is about love, and I love Ruby. Love her. And I, people, have said, ‘You’re so great to accept her love.’ What are you talking about? This is my daughter, this human being has come to me and said, ‘This is who I am.’ And my job is to say, ‘Welcome home.’ I will fight and defend her right to exist against anyone who claims that she doesn’t. And there are those people.”
Jamie Lee Curtis also shared her willingness to learn and grow in her understanding of being transgender. She acknowledged that she doesn’t have all the answers and actively seeks to educate herself by listening to different perspectives. Learning from teachers and seeking guidance from others has been an important part of her journey to becoming a better ally for the transgender community.
The actress acknowledged that she is not immune to making mistakes. She recounted a recent instance where she misspoke about gender equity during the Academy Awards and was rightfully corrected. Curtis took the opportunity to reflect on her error and express her commitment to learning from such experiences.
As a mother of a trans daughter, Curtis addressed the complexities of inclusivity and representation, recognizing the importance of creating spaces that embrace and include everyone beyond binary choices. She emphasized her role as a mom, highlighting her dedication to supporting and understanding her child. Curtis said, “So I’m learning. I’m trying. I’m, I’m human. But at the bottom line is, I’m a mom.”
