Kenneth Faried. Photo by Chris Humphreys-USA TODAY Sports
Denver Nugget Kenneth Faried, who told the world a couple years ago that he has two moms, is the latest professional athlete to join the ranks of Athlete Ally. Faried is the first NBA player to join the organization's growing roster of supporters. While the NFL, NHL, MLS and MLB have all made great public strides in support of gay athletes and LGBT equality, the NBA has trailed behind, so it's nice to see Faried — who has engaged in some LGBT activism in his current state of Colorado — commit fully to opening the NBA to gay athletes.
Faried said in a statement released today by Athlete Ally:
Denver Nugget Kenneth Faried, who told the world a couple years ago that he has two moms, is the latest professional athlete to join the ranks of Athlete Ally. Faried is the first NBA player to join the organization’s growing roster of supporters. While the NFL, NHL, MLS and MLB have all made great public strides in support of gay athletes and LGBT equality, the NBA has trailed behind, so it’s nice to see Faried — who has engaged in some LGBT activism in his current state of Colorado — commit fully to opening the NBA to gay athletes.
Faried said in a statement released today by Athlete Ally:
Becoming an Athlete Ally gives me the opportunity to spread a message of inclusiveness throughout the NBA and our country. I have two moms and I love them both very much. I respect, honor and support them in every way. The bond I have with them has made me realize that I want all members of the LGBT community – whether they are parents, players, coaches or fans – to feel welcome in the NBA and in all of our communities.
Kathy Behrens, Executive Vice President, Social Responsibility & Player Programs for the NBA said of the announcement: "We are proud to work with Athlete Ally and thank Kenneth for his leadership on this issue. His support on this issue is a welcome step in the NBA's ongoing efforts to raise awareness about and end homophobia in sports."
You can find more info here.
Athlete Ally was founded by former college wrestler Hudson Taylor, whom Outsports first profiled in 2010. The organization has grown considerably since then and now boasts a 10-member board of directors that includes former NHL player Sean Avery and New York City politico Brian Ellner.
PHOTO: February 1, 2013; Denver, CO, USA; Denver Nuggets forward Kenneth Faried (35) rebounds the ball during the second half against the New Orleans Hornets at the Pepsi Center. The Nuggets won 113-98. Mandatory Credit: Chris Humphreys-USA TODAY Sports
