Gabrielle Union and Dwyane Wade are proud to be part of this year’s TIME 100 list, but they also find it a bit “weird” when it comes to why they’re included.

“We’re still kind of getting used to being recognized for doing things that have really kind of come naturally like loving your kids as they are,” Union told Good Morning America. “It’s just weird to get credit for that.”

The couple, who’ve been outspoken on Black Lives Matter issues, made headlines earlier this year when the former NBA player’s daughter, Zaya, came out as transgender.

“When you are in the fight for equality, you have to embrace every life as being worthy of and deserving of equality,” Union declared. “You can’t pick and choose.”

Tarana Burke, who profiled the couple for TIME, wrote, “Your commitment to authenticity is without compromise.”

Union says her maturity has allowed her to live up to those powerful words. Also, the couple says they’ve learned a lot from Zaya, who turned 13 during the COVID-19 pandemic.

“She’s helped us see life differently, and I’m thankful for her,” Wade said. “She’s allowed me to be informed where I can help in the same process.”

“Right now it’s a lot of people in the Black community that that will not accept someone of transgender, you know, and look at them as different and not worthy,” Wade added. “Not worthy of life.”

Union said some people “needed to see other families just love their children out loud, unapologetically.”

Wade admitted he’s still evolving, explaining, “I think I’m finding my voice, continuing to let everyone know that I am not perfect. I do not know everything, but I lead with my heart. I lead with love.”

ABC’s TIME 100 special airs tonight at 10 p.m. ET.

By Candice Williams
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