As your journey into adulthood revealed that you are gay, it made no difference to me. You are still my daughter. You did not change. I will always love and support you unconditionally. Fathers love their children who have physical disabilities, intellectual disabilities or are multi-ethnic. There are all kinds of children. A father’s love is without end. Why would sexual orientation change anything?

I know you have encountered many challenges and struggles because of your sexuality, but I also know that my love has given you strength and courage.

Views are changing as people begin to accept and understand that same-sex couples are part of our communities, culture and country. They live in our communities, work in our communities, attend church in our communities and volunteer for our military where they fight for our freedom and liberty. They are our sons and daughters, brothers and sisters, colleagues and friends.

Same-sex couples should be allowed the freedom to marry one another and be treated with dignity and respect.

It saddens me to know that you live your life in a society that views you as “different” or as someone who should not enjoy the same basic rights as a straight person. You are my daughter — you deserve the same love and acceptance and to share in the same freedoms to marry the person you love.

As a society, we should not tolerate acts of discrimination, hate or violence for any reason. We are all equals. I remain committed to the cause of equality and most importantly in fighting to protect you and the children of all fathers. All men and women should have the freedom to choose their partner.

As you are all grown up now, you will still always be my little girl. I am very proud of you. I hope one day that you, too, can experience the love for a child. And I hope one day that your children will live in a world where they will not need protection for wanting to marry who they love.

With love, Dad

State Sen. Juan ‘Chuy’ Hinojosa represents Texas’ District 20, which includes McAllen.