Athlete Quote by Jason Collins
“I'm a 34-year-old NBA center. I'm black. And I'm gay. I didn't set out to be the first openly gay athlete playing in a major American team sport. But since I am, I'm happy to start the conversation. I wish I wasn't the kid in the classroom raising his hand and saying, 'I'm different.' If I had my way, someone else would have already done this. Nobody has, which is why I'm raising my hand.”
About This Quote
Source Speech: Public interview on LGBTQ+ athletes, 2013
Being openly gay in professional sports challenges norms and sparks dialogue.
In simple terms: Openly gay athlete sparks conversation.
Key Takeaway
Speak your truth.
Themes
visibility
sports
LGBTQ+
courage
Mood
determined
proud
Type
activist
inspirational
When to use this quote
- team dynamics
- media interviews
- activism
Key Concepts
social change
representation
Questions to Reflect On
- How can allies support LGBTQ+ athletes?
- What impact does visibility have on youth?
A Different Perspective
Facing backlash may affect mental health.
