In an op-ed for USA TODAY, Baltimore Ravens linebacker Brendon Ayanbadejo writes:

At its best, sports do not discriminate. If you are young or old, tall or short, male or female, gay or straight, all that really matters is how well you play and contribute to your team.

The NFL, MLB, NHL and NBA should and can be leaders against discrimination. Whether you’re a commissioner, an athlete, a coach or a fan, your voice will let every kid out there know that there is a place for him or her in sports. We all can be ourselves and still compete with dignity and at the highest level.

Ayanbadejo is an ambassador for Athlete Ally, a non-profit organization committed to ending homophobia in sports.