August 16, 2011
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On Our Side
I've written many times about the overwhelming homophobia that is present in sports. It seems like we don't go more then a few weeks without hearing about how some athlete, coach, or somebody else in the sports world using a gay slur. And while that is something that definitely needs to change, I decided to focus on a couple of straight athletes who are making a difference.
The first is former NCAA wrestling champ, 25 year old Hudson Taylor. Just who the hell is Hudson Taylor you ask? Well I'm glad you asked. Currently he is a coach at Columbia University who was, get this, raised in an Evangelical Christian home, and as we all know, Evangelicals are not exactly known for being tolerant of gays. But, yet, he defies all stereotypes about Evangelicals and athletes; he is not only supportive of gays, but he has gone much further than many gay people themselves by starting an organization to educate, encourage, and empower straight athletes to combat homophobia and transphobia in sports. You can read more and even get involved yourself at:
http://www.athleteally.com/
The second is former British rugby star Ben Cohen. I'd tell his story, but why do that when I can just copy and paste from his website:
"I lost my own father to violence when he stood up for an employee who was being attacked. I’ve heard from my wonderful friends in the LGBT community about the hard roads too many have traveled. And many parents have shared painful stories with me about how their children, who might be perceived to be different, are ruthlessly attacked and scared of their own schools. I am passionate about standing up against bullying and homophobia in sports, and feel compelled to take action. It is time we stand up for what is right and support people who are being harmed. Every person on this planet has a right to be true to themselves, to love and be loved, and to be happy. I encourage others to stand up with me and make a difference. Simply shop or donate, and your efforts will help fund extremely important work."
Wow, I hope I didn't just commit plagiary. Nevertheless, his site is here:
http://www.standupfoundation.com/
I've always said the battle for gay rights can not be won without strong support from the straight world. The fact is, there are far more straight people than gay people and no fight for civil rights is ever won on sole support of the minority. These two gentleman truly represent what is great with the world and we certainly need more straight people like them to get involved.
Comments (2)
Well stated. I try to do my part here in the woods. We are over run with Southern Baptists and Evangelicals here... it's tough... One of my favorite trips, however, was when we went on a trip WITH one of those churches to Six Flags... and pulled in the giant ass bus full of teenagers, and learned it was Pride Day there!! I did my part that day, with my smaller group of kids... unfortunately I heard too many negative stories about the day when we met back on the bus... the beginning of the end for me in trying to attend a church. Hypocritical bastards.
Thanks for your support, we need it. I would imagine the church goers on that bus were not very tolerant of Pride Day at Six Flags.