Barkley Speaks on Jason Collins and LGBTQ+ Issues in Sports
Charles Barkley recently commented on the ongoing indifference toward the LGBTQ+ community in America following the passing of Jason Collins. Collins, a former NBA player, made headlines in 2013 as the first openly gay active player in the major North American sports leagues: MLB, NFL, NHL, and NBA.
Barkley believes that the “homophobic” attitudes prevalent in society deter many male athletes from revealing their sexual orientation. He stated, “If another guy did it, it would be a huge problem, because we live in a homophobic society.” This was in response to Collins’ death at 47 after battling stage 4 glioblastoma. Barkley emphasized the ignorance of anyone who doubts the existence of gay athletes in various sports.
Further expressing his concerns, Barkley noted, “There’s so much hostility toward the gay community, and that’s really unfortunate.” He mentioned knowing other football players who have come out but feels many remain silent due to societal pressures.
On a recent episode of “Inside the NBA,” Barkley and his co-hosts shared heartfelt reflections on Collins’ legacy. Thirteen years ago, while a free agent, Collins famously declared in Sports Illustrated, “I’m a 34-year-old NBA center. I’m black. And I’m gay.”
After that declaration, Collins played his final season with the Nets, wrapping up a career in which he participated in 735 games and averaged 3.6 points per game. His bravery opened doors, leading to other athletes, like Carl Nassib, who became the first active NFL player to come out publicly.
Kenny Smith, another co-host, recalled the impact of Collins’ announcement. He shared, “Thirteen years ago, you were saying, ‘Someone says they’re openly gay, what’s the big deal?’ Well, 13 years ago it was a big deal. It’s because of people like him that sometimes it doesn’t feel like such a big deal now. Hats off to him.”
Later in the segment, host Ernie Johnson praised Collins, acknowledging his message of authenticity, saying, “Through his words and actions, he told us that we don’t have to live in the shadow.” Johnson reiterated that being true to oneself greatly enhances one’s life.
Barkley has been a consistent advocate for the LGBTQ+ community. In a significant moment three years ago, he defended those in the community during a bar confrontation regarding Budweiser’s support for transgender woman Dylan Mulvaney. Barkley firmly declared, “If you’re gay, God bless you. If you’re transgender, God bless you. And if you have a problem with them, fuck you.” He continued to show his support for the LGBTQ+ community in a colorful manner, proclaiming he would buy drinks for those criticizing Bud Light.
