Las Vegas (AP) – The football professional Carl Nassib has made his homosexuality public in a much-noticed step as the first active NFL player.
“What’s up, guys,” said the defensive end of the Las Vegas Raiders in a video posted on Instagram. “I just wanted to take a minute and say I’m gay. I’ve wanted to do this for a while and I’m finally comfortable getting rid of it.”
The 28-year-old thanked his family and friends for the support he had recently made it possible to “say publicly and proudly that I am gay”. For the past 15 years, this moment has “sadly” tormented him, he added in an accompanying text.
Support from coaches and teammates
Nassib reported that he had received support from the NFL, his coaches and teammates. He was immediately greeted with “the greatest respect and acceptance”. He doesn’t take the step because he wants attention. “I just think that representation and visibility are so important,” he said. He will support the Trevor Project with $ 100,000. The organization runs a telephone counseling service for young LGBTQ people.
“The NFL family is proud of Carl for sharing his truth so courageously today,” said NFL boss Roger Goodell in a statement. “Representation is important. We share his hope that statements like his will one day no longer be newsworthy as we march towards full equality for the LGBTQ + community. We wish Carl the best of luck for the season ahead.”
The wide-reaching reactions in the social networks were also predominantly positive and supportive. The Raiders commented, “Are proud of you Carl”. The post was shared by the Los Angeles Chargers and headed “Some things are bigger than a rivalry”. LGBTQ + community stakeholders praised the move as important and helpful.
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