Gayby boom continues to expand
No one knows how many queer people are parents, but nearly 168,000 same-sex couples throughout the nation reported children at home during the 2000 census. That's more than a ninefold increase over the 1990 census. In Florida, where nearly 10,000 same-sex couples reported children at home in 2000, the numbers could escalate if a federal court strikes down the state law forbidding gays from adopting children. A ruling is expected soon. Living in the suburban Miami neighborhood of Kendall, Stephanie Woolley and Mary Larrea already typify the trend. Accepted by their families and friends, Woolley, 30, a teacher, and Larrea, 43, a juvenile-court administrator, entered adulthood comfortable with their sexuality. When they met six years ago, they fell in love and settled down, buying a house and pledging to build a life together. Their triplets, born last year with an anonymous donor's sperm, made their family whole. "When I was young, I didn't know whether to fake it so I could have kids or live the life I wanted," said Woolley, now a stay-at-home mom. "When I realized having children and being gay weren't mutually exclusive, a huge burden lifted." Orlando Sentinel
The Sentinel also offers this article about what the experts and critics have to say about queer families. Orlando Sentinel
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