Ben Affleck and his ex-wife’s 15-year-old daughter Seraphina Rose Affleck, now known as Fin, spoke in public for the first time using their new name and the pronouns they/them during a memorial service for Jennifer Garner’s father, William Garner. The poignant incident took place on April 6 at Charleston, West Virginia’s Christ Church United Methodist.
Wearing a somber black suit and tie, Fin seemed calm as they spoke to the assembly. With their hair chopped in a buzzcut, Fin gave off a quiet strength that was felt by everyone in the chapel. Fin’s quest has reached a turning point with their identity being publicly acknowledged.
Patricia Ann Garner, Seraphina Rose, Violet Affleck, Jennifer Garner, and William John Garner Elizabeth and Samuel Affleck at Jennifer Garner’s star-studded unveiling on August 20, 2018, in Hollywood, California, USA
Fin said, “Hello, my name is Fin Affleck,” introducing himself to the attendees and the hundreds of people watching the event live on Facebook.
Fin read a verse from the Book of Proverbs that had special meaning for their late grandfather. Fin stated, “Better is a little with righteousness, than a large income with injustice,” quoting from Chapter 16, Verse 8.
Fin found strength in unanimity as they stood with their siblings, Violet, Samuel, and cousins, paying tribute to their grandfather. As they read aloud from the Book of Proverbs together, they shared personal insights about the life and legacy of their cherished patriarch.
Gender non-conforming and non-binary identities have gained more recognition and respect in recent years. Fin’s brave choice to be true to who they are is a potent illustration of this change. Throughout their adolescence, Fin’s parents have encouraged and supported them in discovering and embracing who they are.
Fin was seen wearing a buzzcut earlier this year, which is in line with their gender identity. They were also seen with a customized rucksack that had the name “Fin” sewn on it, which is a small but meaningful confirmation of the name they had picked.
Fin’s family is there to support them on their self-discovery path, providing affection, tolerance, and acceptance.
