I think it really tugs at the heartstrings of most parents. All we want is to participate fully with all of the same rights and privileges as other parents.

Approximately 9 million children are being raised in LGBT-headed households. Our parents live in every corner of this country, rural and urban, red states and blue states, and we strive like every other parent in this country to give our children the best opportunities, to shower them with love, to teach them respect and a love for the rich and diverse traditions America has to offer them. By participating in this American tradition we hope to show our children a great time while introducing our families to the American public in a genuine and respectful way. I know my four-year-old twin sons are going to have a terrific time and I invite anyone with children to come to this cherished event.

It's important for people to know that gay and lesbian parents are here, that they exist, that they are raising children and that we, like all parents, want to participate in the great traditions of this country.

We're thrilled to recognize and further thank Capital One Financial for their steadfast support of Family Pride and LGBT parents. Capital One Financial continues to find innovative and creative ways to make LGBT people, particularly LGBT parents, feel valued in the workplace. Their commitment to diversity, inclusion and equality is admirable, and we're proud to honor them with the Corporate Community Responsibility Award.

The Family Tree Award was designed to recognize excellence and leadership on behalf of LGBT parents and their children. Time and time again B.D. has been a tireless and passionate voice and a face for our families and our love. We are honored to have the opportunity to recognize and thank B.D. for his commitment to equality for LGBT parents and their children.

Family Pride will continue to work with our partners, including Equality Ohio, to help defeat this anti-LGBT, anti-family measure. Nothing less than the lives of Ohio's most vulnerable children are at stake.