In this heartwarming episode of Redefining Family, host Jonathan Wilson sits down with Brit and Sydney Sharon, a couple whose journey from high school friends to loving partners and dedicated parents is truly inspiring. As proud members of the LGBTQ+ and Jewish communities, Brit and Sydney share their story of love, acceptance, and community.
Brit and Sydney's love story began in high school and blossomed as they traveled abroad together. Married for eight years, they quickly started their family, raising their children with a strong sense of belonging rooted in their Jewish heritage. Brit, born on a Kibbutz in Israel and having moved to Southern California, brings a rich cultural background, while Sydney’s Ashkenazi heritage complements Brit’s Sephardic Orthodox roots.
Their journey has had challenges. Brit came out to her friends in high school but faced difficulty with her parents when she and Sydney started dating. Over time, and after the loss of three grandparents, Brit's father became more accepting and now advocates for their family. Sydney, who had only dated guys before Brit, shares their reconnection in Tel Aviv and how they built a relationship that has lasted 15 years.
Building their family is a central focus for Brit and Sydney. They discuss the joys and challenges of the sperm donor process and raising their children in a private Jewish school, fostering a community among LGBTQ+ families. They also hope to expand their family with a fourth child.
Advocacy and community are significant in Brit and Sydney’s lives. They promote acceptance and inclusivity within the LGBTQ+ and Jewish communities. Sydney shares her experience discovering six siblings through her father's sperm donation, adding another layer of complexity to their story. This episode is filled with personal reflections and advice for other LGBTQ+ couples on similar journeys.