Obama’s words have caused an uproar with some Americans.
Former President Barack Obama is facing sharp criticism after urging parents to surround their sons with gay male role models — claiming it teaches boys “empathy” and helps redefine masculinity.
In a new episode of the “IMO” podcast, hosted by his wife Michelle Obama and brother-in-law Craig Robinson, the former president shared his controversial views on raising boys, prompting outrage from traditional and faith-based communities across America.
“You can’t just rely on a good dad,” Obama said. “Boys need exposure to other kinds of men — including gay friends — to show kindness and empathy.”
Obama said one of his favorite professors in college was openly gay and helped correct his “ignorant” thinking. He said having LGBTQ friends is especially important in case one’s own child identifies as gay or non-binary.
“If your son is gay or non-binary, he needs to know he’s not alone. That’s what builds a community,” Obama added.
The remarks sparked immediate backlash from conservative parents, faith leaders, and family advocates — who argue that the former president is pushing progressive gender ideology onto impressionable children.
🔥 Progressives ‘Neglecting Boys,’ Obama Admits
In a surprising twist, Obama criticized his own party’s failure to support boys while focusing heavily on girls.
“Progressive parents — myself included — have sometimes made the mistake of only talking about what’s wrong with boys,” he said. “That’s been a mistake.”
He claimed young men are now starting to redefine masculinity, but he also lamented that the younger generation is abandoning traditional male traits like chivalry, strength, and honor — values many Americans still believe are vital.
🇺🇸 Backlash from Traditional America
Obama’s comments struck a nerve among Americans who believe in faith, family, and time-honored values. Many feel that his remarks are part of a broader effort to reshape manhood and parental authority through cultural pressure.
“This is exactly what concerns us — the erasure of masculinity and the elevation of progressive ideology over parental rights,” said one conservative commentator.
For many families, Obama’s remarks serve as another reminder of how far elites in Washington and the media are willing to go to redefine core American values.
Bottom Line:
Obama’s latest comments have added fuel to the cultural firestorm surrounding gender, family, and faith. As the country moves toward the 2026 midterms, many believe this kind of rhetoric will only widen the divide between traditional Americans and the progressive elite.
