WIBTA If I stopped taking my daughter in public?

This story dives into the heart-wrenching dilemma of a father caught between wanting to be a loving, present parent and facing the harsh realities of public discrimination. A 44-year-old dad, who is Blasian, recounts an incident at a store where his attempt to leave with his young children turned into a traumatic confrontation.

After being physically assaulted and having his daughter forcibly taken from him—all while being wrongly accused of kidnapping—he now grapples with whether he should stop taking his daughter out in public unless she’s with his partner, who helps counteract prejudiced assumptions. This isn’t a decision born out of convenience but one fueled by fear for his family’s safety and the hope of preventing future, potentially life-altering incidents.

‘WIBTA If I stopped taking my daughter in public?’

Civil rights advocate and legal expert Dr. Angela Thompson notes, “When public encounters consistently result in discrimination and even violence, it’s a clear sign that systemic bias is at play. Parents have every right to take extra measures to ensure their children’s safety.”

Dr. Thompson explains that the father’s reaction is a proactive step, not an overreaction. “For families who visibly stand out, especially in communities where racism remains a harsh reality, protective strategies—like presenting a unified front—can be essential for safety.” Additionally, psychological expert Dr. Michael Reyes points out, “Such incidents can leave deep emotional scars on both parents and children.

Preventative actions, even if they seem restrictive, are sometimes necessary to safeguard mental well-being and physical security.” Both experts agree that while it’s unfortunate to have to alter normal routines, the father’s decision reflects a deep-seated need to shield his children from potential harm.

These are the responses from Reddit users:

The Reddit community has rallied around the father, expressing strong support for his decision to protect his children. Commenters have urged him to press charges against those responsible for the assault and to hold the store and even the police accountable for their handling of the situation.

Many sympathized with his pain and validated his choice to limit public outings until he feels it’s safe to do so. Some users recommended practical measures like family-identification accessories and even suggested creating a “safety plan” for public appearances. The consensus among many is that no parent should be forced to risk their child’s safety because of ignorance and prejudice.

At its core, this story raises a tough question: When public prejudice turns dangerous, how far can—and should—a parent go to protect their child? The father’s choice to potentially restrict his daughter’s public outings is not about isolation but about survival and safety. Do you think this is a reasonable, self-protective measure in today’s climate?

How should families navigate public spaces when systemic bias and discrimination are real threats? Share your experiences and thoughts on balancing normalcy with necessary precautions—your insights might help other parents facing similar challenges.