Monday, April 29, 2013

Coming Out

  Jason Collins, the 7' 0" Center for the Washington Wizards, came out and stated publicly that he was gay today. He is the first player in any of the four major North American sports to come out while playing. Collins finished his 12th season in the NBA. He has bounced around the league and has played for six different teams. Jason revealed the news on a story for Sports Illustrated. Collins is getting support from players around the league and Commissioner David Stern. Collins spoke with his brother [Jarron Collins] who also played in the NBA about a year ago on the matter, and Jarron Collins was supposedly "astounded." 
  Collins didn't set out to be the first openly gay player in one of the major North American sports, but he is happy to start the conversation. Jason Collins opened the door for more athletes to come out of the closet today. Hopefully it will make other people's decision to come out easier. Brittney Griner revealed she was gay just a few weeks ago. Collins is a Christian and has been living in fear for 33 years of his life. That shows how tough it is to hide who you really are. This story is more than just about sports. 
  Children and adults should look up to Jason Collins. He found the courage to reveal to the world who he really is. I fully expect a lot more people to come out and reveal their sexuality soon. Jason Collins made their jobs much easier. Jason is a hero and has already made an impact on people's lives. Today will be a day a lot of people will never forget. Jason Collins made history today.