The Ottawa Citizen newspaper recently ran a terrific story about Scott Heggart, a gay college jock, who come out to his family and teammates in high school. It is a must-read article -- on several levels. Full article
Scott is fortunate that he has an unconditionally loving family, accepting him exactly for who he is. Listen to his dad:
Scott also talks about the rampant homophobia in sports and how it hurts everyone, including straight guys.
And finally, as Scott develops confidence from being accepted by his community and teammates, he also understands he the special status he has in society as a good-looking, likable, and smart jock. He realizes that more effeminate young gay men -- like another gay Canadian teenager who recently took his life because of constant bullying -- have a much rougher time than he does. Scott is an idol of his tribe and knows it, and he feels a special responsibility to call out the homophobia that he sees around him. He's one forceful and convincing advocate for equality.
Scott's family including his boyfriend:
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