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The situation of members of the LGBT community, although much better in recent years, is still not where it should be. In an attempt to destroy the stereotypes and create a sort of understanding of LGBT issues, Jeff and Hillary Whittington, the heterosexual parents of a young transgender boy Ryland, made a 7-minute video documenting their six-year-old son’s transition.
Ryland was first raised as female, even though she declared "I am a boy" by the age 2. Ryland’s parents explained that the child's gender identity was not due to their particular parenting style, family structure or any environmental factors, but it was simply because, she began showing an interest in traditionally 'masculine' toys and activities in younger years.
The video goes on to say, that the Whittington's embraced their child's need to be himself, cutting his hair short, and beginning to recognise him as a boy. They mention that they lost some friends along the way, but the ones that really mattered stuck around.
The video really makes you think about the problems and issues faced by the LGBT community. The video has so far amassed more than 5 million hits on YouTube.
