NFL star Carl Nassib celebrates Pride Month with a historic announcement.
The defensive end of the Las Vegas Raiders made public appearances as a member of the LGBTQ + community on Monday June 21, becoming the first athlete ever to do so as an active member of the league.
“Right now I’m sitting in a moment of gratitude and relief,” he began his Instagram post. “Unfortunately, I have tormented myself over this moment for the last 15 years. Only until recently, mostly thanks to my family and friends Connor, Cason, and Francis, it seemed to me possible to say publicly and proudly that I am gay. “
Nassib thanked the NFL, his coaches and teammates “for their support” and wrote: “Without them I would not have been able to do this. From the moment I jumped, I was greeted with the greatest respect and acceptance.”
The 28-year-old then paid tribute to those who may not share his positive experiences before adding, “I stand on the shoulders of giants, incredible people, who paved the way for me on this opportunity. I don’t know the full story behind our brave LGBTQ community, but I am eager to learn and help continue the struggle for equality and acceptance. “
