Two Dads: Gay Male Parenting and its Politicisation — A Cooperative Inquiry Action Research Study – By Jason Tuazon-McCheyne
Australian gay men have only recently become parents through surrogacy arrangements. They have had to overcome a discriminatory legal, social, political, cultural and financial environment. A cooperative inquiry action research group was formed, with seven two-father families conceived via surrogacy, to explore their journey to parenthood and their consequent politicisation as gay fathers. This article reveals how that experience of the cooperative inquiry process strengthened their resolve to be intentionally ‘out’ in their communities to overcome discriminatory and conservative social attitudes. They embraced the political reality of their parenting and were stimulated to create improved support structures for themselves and future parents. This transformed the legal, social, political and cultural environment for their families.
Hi,
I am a filmmaker researching a documentary about gay and lesbian families. I have two mums, Liz and Donna and I have been thinking for a while that there is a story, from the kids, that needs to be told. I currently am interviewing many kids with gay parents, of all ages, races, and from all places in Australia about their own experiences and views concerning their family. So far, I have been talking to kids from ages 3 – 27, all with varying levels of comprehension and comment… And what an inspiring process it is proving to be.
I am very much hoping that you may be interested in being a part of the documentary, even if only at this early stage. Or perhaps be able to pass the information on to someone who may be…
Regardless of the filming, any input, or ideas are welcomed… For the moment, I am talking to the ‘GAYBIES’ and their parents and working out what we have to say.
Kind regards,
MAYA NEWELL