Openly gay men in elite sport are rare, leaving women to lead queer inclusion
The article discusses the lack of openly gay men in elite sports and highlights women's sports as leading the way in queer inclusion initiatives.
The article addresses the scarcity of openly gay men in elite sports, emphasizing how this has led women athletes to take the initiative in championing queer inclusion within their competitions. Anneli Maley, a basketball player, shares her perspective on how women’s sports offer an environment where athletes can fully express their identities. She highlights the efforts made in women’s basketball to foster inclusion, both on and off the court, suggesting that men’s sports could learn valuable lessons from these practices.
Prominent figures in the women's sports community, such as Pride Cup CEO Hayley Conway, affirm the importance of the inclusive atmosphere cultivated in women's competitions. She points out that athletes and fans have successfully created spaces that celebrate diversity, with numerous openly gay, bisexual, and non-binary athletes participating extensively. Conway calls on leagues and clubs, especially in men’s sports, to adopt similar inclusive strategies and move beyond traditional practices that may not welcome all athletes equally.
The article culminates by underscoring the urgent need for sports organizations, particularly those in the men's arena, to reflect on their culture and policies regarding queer inclusion. It highlights a troubling gap in representation for gay men in sports and the responsibility of governing bodies to ensure that their practices evolve to embrace and support athletes of all identities, promoting a true spirit of inclusion across the board.