Baltimore Ravens linebacker Brendon Ayanbadejo spoke with ESPN's Outside the Lines about his support for marriage equality and LGBT rights. The segment addressed NY Rangers forward Sean Avery's recent support for marriage equality and the resulting anti-gay tweets from a hockey management agency.
Ayanbadejo said that many athletes have a "narrow mind" and added, "[Gay rights] is not something that a lot of us talk about [in locker roms], even though we may have brothers, sisters or family members who are gay."
Ayanbadejo has emerged as one of the most articulate supporters of gay rights in professional sport. The three-time Pro Bowler—who became an internet phenom due to a few strategically-placed accessories—was profiled by the Washington Post for his strong support of gay rights. In March, he released a PSA encouraging Marylanders to join him in supporting equality. Brilliant.
Watch it AFTER THE JUMP ...
I love him!
Posted by: Mark N. | 14 May 2011 at 17:07
It's great that he's so fearless in speaking out. I also love the ESPN Sweat Spot that pops up in the related videos:).
Posted by: Kevin | 14 May 2011 at 17:44
Good for him and he's been saying this for a while too.
Posted by: JinCA | 14 May 2011 at 21:44
Not only sexy and smart but care about folks being treated fairly!! Another reason why I love my RAVENS...GO BRENDON!!
Posted by: BLACK | 15 May 2011 at 14:51
Ok, for, "standing on the side of love." Very impressive and excellent points about interracial marriage.
Posted by: FREELEO | 15 May 2011 at 16:19