They're going to let their bigotry get in the way of helping children.

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.

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.

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.

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.

It is interesting only one state has filed a bill to ban gay adoption and, frankly, that's not where we expected to be.