June 13, 2013 | Sex & Society

NFL shows its support for gay pride

The NFL Players Association is getting into the spirit of gay pride by offering a new line of shirts on its website.

The proceeds from the colorful shirts will help support Athlete Ally, a group that works to confront and eliminate homophobia in sports.

“I am extremely proud to be a part of this collaboration between Athlete Ally and the NFLPA’s One Team Shop to raise awareness both of Pride Month and the issue of tolerance and respect within the NFL itself,” said Chris Kluwe, punter for the Oakland Raiders and outspoken supporter of gay rights. “As players, we are role models to a wide variety of people, and this is a great way to send a message of empathy to those who love and watch the game. Also, I'm pretty stoked that people can buy something with my number on it.”

“June is a special month for the LGBT community,” added Super Bowl Champion Brendon Ayanbadejo. “I am extremely excited that the NFLPA’s One Team Shop is adding its name to the list of ever-growing allies. The simple fact that football players believe in equality for every human being is going to make an impact on a lot of peoples’ lives.” 

Each shirt features the name and number of a gay-positive NFL player, including Kluwe, Ayanbadejo, Connor Barwin, Domonique Foxworth, Scott Fujita, and Steve Gleason.

You can purchase shirts here!