Dragons are often seen as fierce, magical, and extraordinary, invoking both awe and fear. Similarly, the group of mothers known as the Mama Dragons embodies these qualities as they advocate for their LGBTQ+ children. Since establishing their Utah-based Facebook community four years ago, these mothers have been a formidable force at Pride festivals, offering support to queer youth and creating a nurturing environment for other moms grappling with their children’s identities. Even the most loving parents can face difficulties when their child comes out, but the Mama Dragons are committed to using their passionate love to shield their children from harmful religious beliefs.
Initially formed by Mormon mothers with LGBTQ children, the Mama Dragons have grown to include women from various backgrounds. Their mission focuses on gracefully navigating the challenging intersection of faith and the LGBTQ community. Sadly, religion often serves as a backdrop for discrimination against queer individuals, including myself. The Bible has been wielded to undermine our rights and self-worth. While I distanced myself from religion for these reasons, many mothers are seeking ways to reconcile their faith with unconditional acceptance of their LGBTQ children. The Mama Dragons are leading the charge in demonstrating that faith and love can coexist.
Lily Thompson’s Journey
Lily Thompson, a Mormon mother from Utah, joined the Mama Dragons in 2015 after her nine-year-old son came out to her. Initially conflicted by her religious teachings that condemned homosexuality, she found solace and understanding within the Mama Dragons community. “New moms often need a safe space to express their feelings,” Thompson explained. “We’re skilled at meeting new members where they are. I remember when I first started this journey; I just wanted someone to assure me it would be okay.”
Amanda Reynolds’ Perspective
Amanda Reynolds, the group’s president, echoed this sentiment. “We listen and provide educational resources,” she said. “Our goal is to create a safe environment where moms can ask questions and learn without fear of negatively affecting their children. It’s essential for us to have a space to grow and make mistakes.”
The Mama Dragons frequently attend Pride events, where they set up Hugging Booths, offering hugs and a listening ear. Their aim is to provide a safe haven for LGBTQ youth and their families, allowing them to express their feelings and feel understood. Unfortunately, many kids express a desire for parental acceptance. Thompson recalls a poignant moment at Pride when a transgender girl brought her mother to the booth, seeking support in using the correct pronouns.
Reynolds recounted reaching out to a friend after her son came out. This friend felt isolated, believing she was the only Mormon with a gay child. She wished she had found support sooner, worried about her son’s mental health. “If we can connect with moms when their kids first come out, we can prevent them from making the same mistakes we did. Parental support significantly reduces suicide rates among LGBTQ youth,” Reynolds noted.
Tragic Loss and Advocacy
Tragically, Reynolds lost her son, Ethan, to suicide in 2016. Despite their support, he struggled to accept his identity and feared rejection from his peers. Each year at Pride, she carries a sign in his memory, sharing his story to foster understanding and change.
When asked how the Mama Dragons can influence attitudes within church communities, Reynolds emphasized the power of personal stories. “People are harder to hate up close,” she said, referencing Brené Brown. “As religious communities engage with LGBTQ individuals, they will learn to love and accept them. Sharing personal narratives helps dissolve barriers, allowing people to see that I’m just a mother wanting to support my son.”
I cannot express enough gratitude to advocates like Reynolds and Thompson. Having faced rejection from my own family due to religious beliefs, I understand the pain of being unwelcome. “Religious freedom” is often misused to justify discrimination against the LGBTQ community, but true freedom should not come at the cost of hurting loving souls.
Finding Support
For those seeking support, the Mama Dragons offer a welcoming environment. Visit their public Facebook page to request access to their closed group. Reynolds and Thompson emphasize the importance of protecting their community of nearly 2,000 mothers, so patience is appreciated during the vetting process. You can find additional information and personal stories on the Mama Dragons website.
You are not alone. “We listen and provide educational resources,” Reynolds reassured. “Our goal is to help moms be the best support for their LGBTQ children.”
In summary, the Mama Dragons exemplify the power of love and acceptance in the face of societal and religious obstacles. Through their advocacy and support, they are transforming the lives of LGBTQ youth and their families, fostering an environment where understanding and compassion thrive.