She Knew Before I Said a Word — My Sister, My Strength
We don't often get to see the people standing quietly behind a coming out story. The ones who were already there, who felt it before it was said, who made space without being asked. This interview is about one of them.
Xue Zhang is the older sister of Xian Huang (Chelsea). We sat down with her to talk about family, identity, and what it really means to show up for someone you love.
What does family mean to you? And how does it feel to be here today, sitting beside Xian?
For me, family is the most important thing. It is a place of companionship, understanding and support. Sitting here with Xian today, I feel deeply moved. Watching my little sister grow up, stay true to herself — I feel so many emotions. And so much pride.
When Xian first told you about who she is, what was your first reaction? You can speak directly to her.
Honestly, I had a feeling for a long time. I know your partner Samanta, I have seen you together. You never brought a boyfriend home, you rarely talked about your romantic life — but Samanta was always there. You lived together in Shanghai, then travelled together to Saint Lucia. The closeness between you, the way you depended on each other, you could feel it. I even tried to hint at it to other family members. So when you finally told me, it only confirmed what I had always felt.
My first response was to tell you immediately: I support you. You are who you are. We do not have children for ourselves. If one day my own daughters told me the same thing, I would accept them too. Family is always the most important thing. Samanta is part of our family now. And your future children will be my niece or nephew. It is as simple as that.
What did you know about the LGBTQAI+ community before this?
In China, there are very few openly gay public figures, and we have very little access to information on the subject. So my knowledge was very limited. I only knew that in some countries, people can get married and have children. But beyond that, the one thing I have always been certain of is this: love is love. Everyone has the right to pursue happiness.
What changed for you after Xian came out to you?
I feel even closer to her.
You later became involved in supporting Xian and Samanta's project, namely their Lovo Nova brand. What does that mean to you?
Lovo Nova is a brand they created together. It is a very sincere form of expression — not just design, but an attitude. Being part of it is a way of supporting them, and a way of learning. I have seen how they bring love, identity and creativity together.
Last question. As a sister, what would you say to parents and families in China whose child is gay, lesbian, or part of any minority group?
Please remember one thing first: they are your child. What they need is not blame, but understanding and companionship. Love does not break a family. Rejection does. The love between family members can hold space for difference.
