What can decades of hidden love teach us about modern LGBTQ+ family building?
Morgan Lieberman's poignant photo and film project, Hidden Once, Hidden Twice, sheds light on the lives of senior lesbian couples across the United States. These women lived through eras where their relationships were often silenced or erased — a reality that shaped not only their identities but their paths to parenthood and family.
But why does this matter now, in 2025, when LGBTQ+ family building is becoming more visible and accessible? And how can we use the lessons from their stories to support those exploring non-traditional parenthood routes today?
Let’s dive in.
1. Visibility is Power — But It Came Late
For many senior lesbian couples, the choice to remain hidden wasn’t about preference but survival. Lieberman's project reminds us that invisibility can delay family formation and access to reproductive resources.
Today, visibility translates into better access to reproductive technologies and support networks. Yet, the echoes of invisibility still linger, influencing how older LGBTQ+ individuals approach parenthood later in life.
2. Family Building is a Lifelong Journey
Many couples featured in Hidden Once, Hidden Twice started relationships long before assisted reproductive technologies became widely available. Their stories highlight resilience and creative pathways to build families—often later in life.
This is important because today’s reproductive technologies, like at-home insemination kits, empower LGBTQ+ individuals and couples to start or expand families on their own terms, regardless of age.
3. The Science of Parenthood Has Evolved — Inclusively
2025 has seen significant scientific advances tailored to unique needs. For example, companies specializing in at-home insemination kits, like MakeAMom, offer specialized products for various fertility challenges — including low motility or sensitivity issues — with success rates averaging 67%.
This reflects a broader shift: family building technologies are becoming more inclusive and accessible, echoing the needs of diverse families highlighted by projects like Lieberman’s.
4. Emotional and Social Support Are Vital
The documentary underscores how social support, or the lack thereof, shaped these women’s lives. Today, community resources and networks foster healthier environments for LGBTQ+ parents and their children, which was often missing decades ago.
5. Privacy Remains Crucial — But So Does Openness
Despite increased visibility, privacy remains a priority for many in the LGBTQ+ community, especially around family building. MakeAMom’s discreet packaging policy is a perfect example of how product providers now respect this need.
At the same time, sharing stories like those in Hidden Once, Hidden Twice fosters understanding and acceptance — crucial for expanding support systems.
Why Does This Matter to You?
If you’re an individual or couple exploring LGBTQ+ family building, these insights remind us that your journey is part of a larger story — one marked by love, resilience, and evolving technology.
Whether you’re considering at-home insemination, donor conception, or other pathways, understanding this history enriches your experience and connects you to a community of pioneers.
Final Thoughts:
The women in Hidden Once, Hidden Twice faced a world that often denied them visibility and resources. Today’s families have new tools and greater freedom to choose their path. Yet, their stories remind us of the importance of continuing to improve accessibility, support, and inclusion.
If you want to learn more about accessible options for home insemination tailored to diverse needs — and to hear real success stories — exploring resources like MakeAMom’s home insemination systems might be a good first step.
What lessons from senior LGBTQ+ couples resonate most with your family-building journey? Share your thoughts below, and let’s keep the conversation going!
Reference: Morgan Lieberman's 'Hidden Once, Hidden Twice' documentary photo project highlighting senior lesbian couples. Read more at NPR.