The 519 Queer Family Parenting Program

http://www.the519.org/donate

The 519's Queer Parenting Programs September2010 Book Review

In Our Mothers' House

By Patricia Polacco
ISBN: 978-0-399-25076-7

For the month of September we are paying tribute to our grandparents -- and in particular -- to lesbian, gay, bisexual, trans and queer grandparents. It is with great pleasure that we highlight perhaps one of the only existing children's books that tells the tale of the full parenting life cycle of two mothers.

Follow key moments in the lives of Marmee and Meema as told from the loving perspective of their eldest child. From the moment she was adopted and the adoption of her siblings, life in their neighbourhood and organising community events, growing up and putting homophobic attitudes into perspective, sharing family milestones and their own children with Marmee and Meema -- now grandmothers. You and your young ones will have a joyful read through to the end. This book is quite touching. If you are the least bit sentimental (like myself) you may shed a small tear as you finish the last page.

In Our Mothers' House reminds readers of the cycle of life and the love we bring to those who we call family. My father, now 69, and I just spoke at The 519's LGBTQ Seniors Program about Queer Parenting over the Years as father/son queer activists. His partner (my stepfather), Norman, passed away this year. As Opa and Grampy they had several children and grandchildren (and great grandchildren). Patricia Polacco's Marmee and Meema remind me of them -- "out" parents and grandparents confidently being themselves and loving their families in the face of both community support and hurtful attitudes. They all managed through decades of change to turn a house into a home where their families could be proud.

Whether there are grandparents in your family, or other elders that you count as family, I encourage you to think of positive influences and lessons they've provided you and your children. For those of you who are LGBTQ parents, read this book and think of possibilities to come. And to all of you who are LGBTQ grandparents -- my hat goes off to you. You've gone through so many decades of change.

Wishing you all wellness and wholeness,

~ Chris Veldhoven, Queer Parenting Programs Coordinator

Video: Richard Rhyme for The 519

Category:

Nonprofits & Activism

Tags:

• Queer
• Family
• Parent
• Book
• Review