Denver Nuggets power forward Kenneth
Faried is the first NBA player to join Athlete Ally, the non-profit
fighting homophobic speech in sports.
“Becoming an Athlete Ally gives me
the opportunity to spread a message of inclusiveness throughout the
NBA and our country,” Faried said in a statement.
“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 our communities.”
Last month, Faried, 23, joined
his two moms in a video urging passage of a civil unions bill in
Colorado.
“Kenneth's advocacy for marriage
equality was game changing and his work to transform the culture of
sports as an Athlete Ally will also make a huge difference,” Brian
Ellner, who serves on the Athlete Ally Board of Directors, said
in a statement. “Today, Kenneth sends a loud message to young
people around the world that you can be who you are and compete at
any level.”
Hudson Taylor, an openly straight Columbia
University assistant wrestling coach, started Athlete Ally in 2011.