We have all heard someone we know say it, and admittedly said it ourselves, “That’s so gay”. It’s no secret that competition brings out the worst in many, and combined with our derogatory nature when perceiving abnormal qualities in others, spells trouble. As a society, we have made great strides in acknowledging equality for those in the LGBT community; however homophobia in sports is significantly apparent, and unfortunately synonymous with its culture. Perspective amongst athletes that play these sports varies, from accepting homophobia as intolerable, to others that lack awareness and education on the issue resulting in an ignorant mindset.

It is quite obvious that there are many athletes who suppress the right to stay true to who they are because of the homophobic environment that has loomed over sports for quite some time. Jason Collins, a former NBA player was the first male to come out playing in a major professional sporting organization. Not only is this a rare occurrence but also takes extreme courage on Collins’ behalf. If you ask Collins, he’ll just tell you he is just staying true to who he is. “The most you can do is stand up for what you believe in. I’m much happier since coming out to my friends and family. Being genuine and honest makes me happy”, he states in a Sport Illustrated article to which he initially came out. There are many that back Collins for his sheer act of courage, hoping this will help pave the way for future gay athletes who are hesitant to come out. This is a feel good story that should not go unnoticed, however by no means has this fully eradicated homophobia in our sporting culture. At the time, Collins was not contractually obligated to an organization, and has since remained a free agent. Now whether this is coincidental or not, it should be noted that he was once seen as a marquee asset while playing for the Atlanta Hawks of the NBA.

With the winter Olympics mere months away, Russia’s anti gay laws will remain enacted over the course of the events, sparking outrage. While this has drawn the ire of many, and boycotts of the game seemingly garnering attention, they have yet to be backed officially by a household athlete or sports organization, which underlies the problem. Henrik Lundqvist, a recognizable face in hockey and goalie for the New York Rangers, made an appearance in an advertisement that spoke out against homophobia in hockey. When asked about Russia’s anti gay laws Lundqvist refused to comment. Why is it that Lundqvist, once a noticeable activist in fighting homophobic views in hockey refuses to comment? Fear is an obvious answer, but many athletes will tell you that sports and politics should not mix. It’s difficult to imagine change when so few will speak out. Society idolizes these athletes and so their voices carry more value as a result. Individuals gain notoriety based off their messages, and how they bring about change to others around them. The likes of Martin Luther King, and Mahatma Gandhi, did not achieve what they set out for because they were timid to speak out on what they thought was right. Athletes who are already famous, and possess a substantial following are the missing component to help end this unfortunate culture found in sports.