Times have changed in the U.S.
Homosexuality is widely accepted in society. Chances are, you probably have a friend, co-worker or family member who is gay. That’s the world we live in today.
Only recently has homosexuality begun to creep into the world of sports. Everyone has heard these whispers. Could there be gay professional athletes? Well, of course. There probably have been for a long time.
According to a report by ESPN, as many as four gay NFL players are considering coming out together. They plan to do this so they can each take the pressure off one another.
Former Raven, Brendon Ayanbadejo, is a huge activist in the NFL for same-sex marriage and gay rights. He spoke with The Baltimore Sun about this very scenario.
“I think it will happen sooner than you think," Ayanbadejo said. "We're in talks with a handful of players who are considering it. There are up to four players being talked to right now, and they're trying to be organized so they can come out on the same day together.”
I truly hope these players come forward. They have nothing of to ashamed, and they should be commended for their bravery. I can’t imagine the struggle they go through.
Homosexuality is still a hot button issue in the U.S., but it shouldn’t be. Who are we to judge who can and cannot love each other?
I understand the trepidation of these players.
Football is played on a grandiose stage and widely considered the most “manly" sport you could play.
Homosexuality is hardly considered traditionally masculine. This is why it’s so difficult for gay football players to come out.
This would be great for the entire NFL.
Would there be players that can’t understand it? Definitely.
These ignorant people remain in all facets of our society and afraid of change.
These people are also in the minority. They’re in a minority that only continues to shrink.
Most players around the league would support these gay players. Teammates of the players would certainly support them. NFL locker rooms are like families.
Roger Goodell should be excited about the opportunities for outreach into the gay community.
This goes beyond sports. This says something about our society as a whole.
If we can’t accept people who are honest and proud of who they are, then how can we grow?
Whenever there’s change, there are always people opposed to it. This occurs throughout American history. Whether it be slavery or women’s rights, this is an ongoing theme in our history.
Eventually, we get it right. Sometimes it takes years and countless battles with people who love to hate rather than accept difference.
Well, I say better late than never.
The same goes with gay rights. This is a huge political debate in our country, but it shouldn’t be at all. We should all accept it and move on.
Homosexuality is not a sin, and it’s not immoral. It’s a human being's sexual orientation — something that no one has any control over.
I look forward to the day when these players come out together. I know it’s going to be soon maybe even be before the 2013 season.
These men are incredibly brave. They face more scrutiny than any other NFL player ever has.
In order for progress to be made, people need to stand up for what they believe. Or in this case, for who they love.
One day, our gay brothers and sisters will be free to love and marry whomever they choose without any scrutiny. This is the way things should be.
When this finally happens, it will be a great day for all Americans. Our society is too judgmental. We live in a society that loves to hate.
If we can learn to love everyone equally, then we truly will be the greatest country in the world.
Reach the columnist at jbisacci@asu.edu
