Tia Mowry is clarifying her unique parenting journey with a heartfelt message. As she and her ex-husband, Cory Hardrict, who officially divorced in 2023, navigate the waters of co-parenting their two beloved children, 14-year-old Cree and 7-year-old Cairo, the "Seventeen Again" actress has responded to criticism over her self-identification as a "single mom."
In an Instagram post dated July 22, accompanied by a warm snapshot of her bonding with her kids, Tia penned, "Family can diverge from our imagined blueprint yet remain brimming with love, stability, and joy. This is my reality, and I yearn to share it. Being a 'single mom' doesn't invariably signify a mother toiling alone, devoid of a father's presence in their children's lives. I acknowledge the struggles of that stereotype and deeply empathize."
The 47-year-old actress then shed light on an often-overlooked aspect of her life that she's still adjusting to, emphasizing that she and Cory, who portrayed roles in "Brotherly Love," were married for a decade and a half before announcing their separation in 2022.
"In my household, I am SINGLE," continued Tia, who is also known for her role in "Sister, Sister." "I lack a partner, hence I'm the pillar of support at home. I'm the sole parent present daily. I vividly recall those initial nights when my world pivoted."
Tia revealed that she grappled with feelings of "guilt" and "shame" regarding how the divorce might impact Cree and Cairo. Nevertheless, amidst her tumultuous emotions, she knew that prioritizing their wellbeing alongside Cory was non-negotiable.
"It's not merely about being a 'single mom,' but about acknowledging the need to normalize diverse family structures," the actress elaborated. "Just because parents aren't together doesn't equate to a 'broken' family. It merely appears differently. Parents must set aside their personal emotions and be there for their kids, come what may."
This candid post arrives seven months after Tia shared the ups and downs of co-parenting her children during the holidays.
"I confess, as a single mom, I occasionally feel the weight because our family dynamic doesn't mirror others," she had posted on Instagram in December, alongside an endearing photo of her and her little ones by their Christmas tree. "But guess what? That's alright. Being different doesn't signify being lesser. The quintessence lies in preserving traditions for my children—because regardless of its appearance, we are a family, bound by love."
