Charles Barkley on Gay Marriage
Charles Barkley has come out in support of same-sex marriage. "I'm a big advocate of gay marriage," Barkley said during an appearance on CMI: The Chris Meyers Interview, which will air on Sunday night on Fox SportsNet. "If they want to get married, God bless them. Gay marriage is probably 1 percent of the population, so it’s not like it’s going to be an epidemic."
The legendary NBA player is considering running as a Democratic gubernatorial candidate in his home state of Alabama—where, unfortunately, gay marriage is already prohibited—and spoke frankly on racism, politics and homophobia. Repeating earlier comments he has made against homophobia, Barkley acknowledged gay athletes face discrimination in sports, but, says the problem isn't limited to locker rooms. He adds: "If a gay guy can play, I want him on my team. Let's get that straight."
Until recently, Barkley was an outspoken Republican but said he switched parties when Repubs “lost their minds.” Barkley says he is troubled by some of the bigotry promoted by religions and embraced by the GOP; he is also disturbed by the Democrats' lack of strategy, which we certainly co-sign.
Someone give this man a prize. Charles Barkley is delivering the message that many athletes and politicians need to hear.
Barkley Barks in FSN Interview (Fox Sports)
Barkley Speaks Out on Religion, Gay Marriage (MSNBC)
Previously:
On the "Outside Looking In" (Rod 2.0) Out of Bounds (Rod 2.0)
This really surprises me. I guess Barkley has mellowed with age. That's pretty impressive.
Posted by: Rachel S | 31 August 2006 at 13:50
I have to agree. I'm surprised at this new and improved Mr Barkley. Don't get me wrong. I like it. It's just that I spent so many years thinking he was a bag of hot air, that a period of adjustment may take awhile. Good for you Mr Barkley, and good for me for having lived long enough to see this.
Posted by: FREELEO | 31 August 2006 at 16:09
I knew he'd get some sense in his head--the big juicy hunk of somethin'. I love beef...hell, I love pork nowadays. I ain't young no more.
Posted by: Derrick from Philly | 31 August 2006 at 17:33
Man I always thought he had the biggest mouth! Now hes finally putting it to good use. He may just be the most important person to speak on gay marriage mainly because hes from a boys club that is normally homophobic. I hope he can make a difference in the sports world. Having dated a closeted NFL star I can tell you its pretty bad inside.
Posted by: Jeff Hobbs | 01 September 2006 at 00:20
God bless Charles Barkley. I just wish there were more real men of good will standing up for what is right.
Posted by: Mel Robertson | 01 September 2006 at 04:38
hey charley
GO TO HELL!!!
Posted by: viktor | 01 September 2006 at 14:55
Hey Viktor -- So... why are you reading this website? Come on out of that nasty old closet and have some fun baby!
Posted by: pauline | 01 September 2006 at 18:50
Go Barkley!!
I knew I liked that man.
Posted by: taylor Siluwé | 02 September 2006 at 07:30
I love this. Unfortunately, it would seem, just as when Kanye spoke out in defense of gays, the mainstream media--especially the minority media--chooses to look past it.
Posted by: Bobby Alexander | 05 September 2006 at 13:47
I will, and have always loved Sir Charles Barkley.
I can work for him, just give him some loves.
He can come visit us anytime. I have loved Charles for YEARS!!!
You are the cutest.
Posted by: Trish and Kaila | 08 March 2007 at 23:34
Who would have thought. Sir Charles Coming around. Keep it up man. It suits you.
Posted by: Michael Jordan | 18 March 2008 at 11:56