More Than a Game: Reflecting on Jason Collins and the Ongoing Fight for LGBTQ+ Inclusion in Sports

It was a moment that reverberated far beyond the basketball court. In 2013, Jason Collins, then a veteran NBA player, penned an article in Sports Illustrated, uttering words that would forever change the landscape of professional sports: "I'm gay." The announcement catapulted Collins into the national spotlight, making him the first openly gay male athlete to come out while still actively playing in one of the four major North American sports. But a decade later, with progress evident yet challenges remaining, we must ask: How far have we truly come, and what work still lies ahead to create genuinely inclusive environments for LGBTQ+ athletes?

The Weight of the Closet: A Personal Perspective

For Collins, the decision to come out was a liberation, a shedding of a heavy burden. As he described in interviews, the years spent hiding his true self were marked by sleepless nights, anxiety, and a pervasive sense of isolation. "When you're in the closet," he explained, "the stress that comes along with that… it can make you actually physically so nervous and anxious, and you're devoting energy that you have in the day towards combating that versus towards accomplishing your goals."

Imagine the pressure. Imagine the constant calculation, the fear of accidental exposure, the energy diverted from training, from teamwork, from simply being present in the moment. It's a weight that no athlete should have to bear. And while Collins' courage paved the way for others, the scarcity of openly gay male athletes in professional sports today suggests that this weight, this fear, still looms large.

Where Are the Role Models? The "Last Closet" in Men's Sports

Even now, years after Collins' groundbreaking announcement, the number of openly gay or bi male athletes in major professional sports remains strikingly low. Why? What is holding them back? It's a question that demands honest introspection within the sports world and beyond.

Collins himself points to the persistent presence of homophobia, particularly in male-dominated sports. The hyper-masculine environment, the fear of judgment, the potential for discrimination - these factors create a climate of fear that discourages athletes from being their authentic selves. He also notes the importance of role models, lamenting the lack of openly gay male athletes he could look up to when he was younger. While women's sports have seen more visible LGBTQ+ representation, men's sports continue to be described as "the last closet."

But what can be done? How do we foster a culture of acceptance and encourage more athletes to step forward and speak their truth?

Creating Safer Spaces: A Multi-Pronged Approach

The answer, according to Collins, lies in a multifaceted approach that addresses systemic issues and promotes individual accountability:

• Education and Awareness: It starts with open conversations about LGBTQ+ issues, homophobia, and the importance of inclusivity. Teams, leagues, and organizations should bring in experts to educate players, coaches, and staff. These conversations don't need to be long or complex; they just need to happen consistently.
• Accountability: Empower individuals to speak up against homophobia and discrimination. Create a culture where derogatory language and jokes are not tolerated. "You never know who's in the locker room," Collins emphasized, "whether it's a player, a teammate of yours, a coach, an owner."
• Leadership from the Top: Coaches, athletic directors, and team owners must actively champion inclusivity and create a safe and supportive environment for all athletes. Their words and actions set the tone for the entire organization.
• Highlighting LGBTQ+ Visibility: Celebrate the accomplishments of LGBTQ+ athletes and allies. Share their stories and create platforms for them to speak out. Visibility is crucial for inspiring others and challenging stereotypes.

The Talent Drain: What's at Stake?

The lack of openly LGBTQ+ athletes isn't just a matter of social justice; it's also a potential loss for the sport itself. As Collins points out, when athletes feel compelled to hide their true selves, they divert energy and focus away from their performance. The fear of discrimination can also lead talented athletes to quit the sport altogether.

Think about the potential talent that is lost when young athletes in homophobic environments feel discouraged from pursuing their dreams. The next LeBron James or Serena Williams might be out there, but they may never reach their full potential if they don't feel safe and accepted.

Love and Acceptance: A Message from Faith

Collins, who grew up in a religious environment, emphasizes the importance of love and acceptance, themes that resonate across many faiths. He recalls the influence of his grandmother, an elder in their church, who taught him that "Jesus was about love and acceptance." He encourages religious leaders to use their platforms to promote inclusivity and challenge homophobic attitudes.

"Usually religions are supposed to bring people together… and usually it's through love. So let's start there. How do we bring more people to the table and serve others?"

A Moment to Celebrate: Jason Collins' Wedding

In a heartwarming epilogue to his story, Jason Collins married his longtime partner, film producer Brunson Green. This joyous occasion serves as a reminder that love and commitment transcend boundaries and that visibility matters. Their wedding was a celebration of authenticity and a testament to the progress that has been made, while also underscoring the continued need for advocacy and change.

The Road Ahead: It's On All of Us

Jason Collins' story is a powerful reminder of the courage it takes to live authentically in a world that isn't always accepting. While progress has been made, the fight for LGBTQ+ inclusion in sports is far from over. It's up to all of us - athletes, coaches, fans, and leaders - to create a culture where every athlete feels safe, supported, and empowered to be their true selves.

What steps can you take to promote inclusivity in your own community? How can you be an ally to LGBTQ+ athletes and help create a more welcoming and equitable world for all?