Families are just families, regardless of who comprises the family unit. That’s the message of One Love: LGBT Families, which is on view until September 4, 2017 on the Valentine’s Lower Level.

Developed in collaboration with Richmond Region Tourism’s OutRVA campaign, One Love: LGBT Families features photographic portraits by Michael Simon of lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender (LGBT) families from the region.

“We’ve had a flurry of individuals, families, and groups coming to the museum to see the exhibition. Everyone seems to be inspired by reading each of the families’ stories along with their beautiful family portrait,” says Domenick Casuccio, director of public relations and marketing at the Valentine.

The concept of family within the LGBT community has historically – and out of necessity – been flexible. After coming out, many LGBT individuals are ostracized by their family and friends. “The Valentine’s current photography exhibition asks visitors to consider what it means to be a family,” says Casuccio.

Sponsors for the exhibit include Altria Group, Capital One, Virginia is for Lovers, Diversity Richmond, Q94 and Pride Radio.