Athletes have long been among the most prominent agents for social change. We are proud of our role on the front lines of civil rights. We have stood up for issues that are bigger than the game we play, and though the topics debated may change over the years, the principle is the same: We fundamentally believe that all people deserve equal rights.
That is why, as president of the NFL Players Association, I’m standing with the majority of Americans who support the freedom to marry.
This simple endorsement of equality might surprise some people. After all, recent headlines around the NFL have focused on a preoccupation with draft eligible players’ sexual orientation. And, of course, we have yet to count an openly gay player among our teammates. Nonetheless, many NFL players see what everyone else in this country sees — the growing support for marriage equality. We believe that denying people basic rights and protections simply because of who they are and whom they love is wrong. It’s an unconstitutional breach of our right to equal protection under the law.
Hell yes. Take that, Matt Birk.
The whole piece is made of win. I just want to post the whole thing.
Recently, two NFL players, Minnesota Vikings Chris Kluwe and three-time Pro Bowler Brendon Ayanbadejo of the Ravens, filed an amicus brief with the Supreme Court supporting the freedom to marry. I applaud their action — and all the other players who have announced their support, including the executive director of the NFLPA, DeMaurice Smith.
But as important and helpful it is to have Brendon, Chris and many other athletes step forward, we know a favorable ruling by our nation’s highest court would move this conversation light years ahead and demonstrate that equality in this country means just that — equality for everyone.
It would be in the best interest of all Americans for the Supreme Court to strike down discriminatory legislation that denies gay and lesbian couples the right to marry. Its decision won’t change the face of this country — that’s already happening — but it will reaffirm America’s commitment to equality.
Title: NFL players union gay rights
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