When it comes to the ever-present national debate about sexuality, marriage equality and sports, most people have been focused on gay, bi and trans male players in sports and ignoring the perspectives of women on the matter. But rising WNBA star Sophia Young recently chimed in on the matter of same-sex marriage and, much to everyone’s shock, disapproved of marriage equality.
Last week, the San Antonio Shooting Stars forward took to Twitter and voiced her opposition to same-sex marriage in San Antonio as the city debates and a new anti-discrimination bill.
Should San Antonio be a city that allows same sex marriage?? I vote NO.
— Sophia Young (@sophiayoung33) August 28, 2013
My vote is still No… San Antonio should not allows Same sex marriages. pic.twitter.com/W5c9RMDwAF
— Sophia Young (@sophiayoung33) August 28, 2013
However, as some have noted, it appears that Young is confused about the bill that is being debated in Texas, which doesn’t allow same-sex marriage in any of its cities. San Antonio’s City Coucil isn’t debating marriage equality, it’s actually deciding whether or not to offer nondiscrimination protection for individuals based on sexual orientation and gender identity within already existing legislation.
After receiving a backlash from fans, Young responded by tweeting a religious statement about her political views.
“God has not given me a spirit of fear; but of power, love and a sound mind” I will not be a afraid. I will stand up for Jesus Christ.
— Sophia Young (@sophiayoung33) August 30, 2013
Young’s comments didn’t sit well with WNBA President Laurel J. Richie, who sent a statement to the Huffington Post, respectfully disagreeing with Young’s tweets.
“Sophia has the right to express her point of view, however, I do not share her view,” Richie wrote. “The WNBA supports diversity and we are committed to the equal and fair treatment of all people.”
Indeed, It’s quite surprising that Young has taken such an anti-LGBT rights stance considering that a considerably large portion of the WNBA’s fan base is LGBT. Perhaps even more perplexing is the fact that, despite Young’s stance, she has chosen a profession where women are constantly going against the grain of traditional gender norms and many of her respected teammates and colleagues are openly gay or bisexual, something which is rare and has been applauded in the world of sports. But perhaps Young missed the memo on riding the wave of progress, which is totally her choice to make.
But she’s not the only one in sports making disapproving comments of the LGBT community. Check out some other offenders below. – nicholas robinson
