LGBTQIA+ Athletes Answer Questions, Offer Support During Pride Month
According to Outsports, Uninterrupted, LeBron James’ media brand, has launched an online initiative for Pride Month. The project, called Q And Athlete, features LGBTQIA+ athletes answering questions from people who may be struggling with their sexuality.
The group of athletes includes WNBA stars Breanna Stewart and Chelsea Gray, former NFL player RK Russell, college volleyball player Merrick McHenry, runner Emma Gee, and Matt Lynch, the only openly gay men’s college basketball head coach as reported by Outsports.
The website was created by three LGBTQIA+ employees at Uninterrupted, Reed Jackson, Noa Chang, and Ethan Haddox. They wanted to provide a safe space for people to ask questions and get advice from athletes who have gone through similar experiences.
Throughout the month, the athletes will address various concerns and offer guidance. Russell, who started the initiative, answered a question about being the only queer person on a team and dealing with bullying. He talked about the importance of diversity within teams and encouraged people to find support from allies.
Stewart was asked about dealing with men who are uncomfortable with LGBTQIA+ teammates on a co-ed team. She advised staying confident in one’s identity and having open, honest conversations when it’s safe to do so. She also suggested getting help from coaches or other authority figures to make sure everyone feels safe and accepted.
Lynch, who played basketball with LeBron James, is excited to be part of this project. As a former closeted college basketball coach, he knows how important it is to have a resource like Q And Athlete for people who need guidance and support.
This initiative is a great resource for the LGBTQIA+ community in sports. It also shows how important it is to have allies and create inclusive environments within teams and organisations.
