Former NBA star Dwyane Wade and his actor wife Gabrielle Union recently got the President’s Award for special achievement and distinguished public service. They felicitated the couple at the 54th annual NAACP Image Awards. At the awards, Wade gave a heartfelt speech for his trans daughter Zaya. Being an advocate for trans rights himself, F1 sensation Lewis Hamilton gave a shout-out to his good friend for an issue that recently landed Wade in a world of trouble with his ex-wife.

Last year, Dwyane applied for a new birth certificate for his 15-year-old daughter. He wanted the new document to recognize her new name and changed her gender. However, his ex-wife Siohvaughn Funches filed an objection to the petition, arguing that Wade aimed to gain financially from their daughter’s trans identity. He later issued a statement through social media that won the hearts of many.

In his recent appearance for the NAACP Image Awards, Wade praised his daughter for staying strong despite facing difficulties because of her identity each day. “As your father, my job isn’t to create a version of myself or direct your future,” he said.

“My role is to be a facilitator to your hopes, your wishes, and your dreams. Zaya, you’ve made me a better human just simply by being who you were born to be: our baby girl, Zaya Wade. So, baby, thank you for showing the world what courage looks like. I’m proud that I was chosen to stand in place as your father.”

Hamilton shared a snippet of the speech through an Instagram story and wrote, “Incredibly inspired. There’s so much power in using your platform for good. Proud of both @dwyanewade @gabunion”

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Dwyane and Lewis share a special bond. We learned about it when the NBA legend gave Hamilton a special shout-out after a vacation with his wife.

When Dwyane Wade thanked Lewis Hamilton for a special experience in Southern Africa

Lewis needed a break from all the grind after sadly missing out on the record 8th world championship title in 2021. To take his mind off the loss, the Silver Arrows’ star driver took a vacation in Africa. As he posted scenic pictures from multiple locations, he inspired many to visit the continent. Among them were Dwyane and Gabrielle.

In an Instagram post, Wade wrote, “Red Dunes of Namibia [heart] Top 3 most beautiful places I’ve ever seen and experienced. A truly stunning and magical place. Thanks @lewishamilton for putting us on to this blessing. The spiritual/mental/physical rebirth continues.”

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It is heartening to see how passionate Dwyane is in sensitizing the world to the issues trans people face each day. By doing that, he is not just being a noble father to his daughter, but also putting his fame to good use by raising awareness.