In all of sports history, athletes of different sexual orientations have faced a lot of intolerance and closed mindedness. Based on Michael Sam's recent treatment in the NFL, many fans feel that bigotry still exists in professional sports. However, confidant leaders like Sam are leading the march toward social equality for homosexuals in the NFL. Also, earlier in the year, the Human Rights Campaign commended Alabama coaches Nick Saban and Gus Malzhan for announcing their willingness to sign athletes regardless of sexual preference.
Michael Sam is currently a free agent in the NFL without a team. The Saint Louis Ram's drafted him, but he was cut at the end of training camp.
Also, he was brought on to the Cowboys practice and later let go for, what Sam believes could be discrimination.
It does seem that Michael's skepticisms could be warranted. During his senior year at the University of Missouri, Sam was dubbed SEC Defensive Player of the year. So it is safe to assume he wasn't cut for his lack of skill.
Now, news has surfaced that Oprah Winfrey will be featuring a 90-minute documentary on her OWN network that focuses on Sam's struggle. According to USA Today, the piece honors Sam for staying true to himself regardless of the circumstances:
"Michael Sam is breaking down boundaries and showing the world what it means to be authentic to who you are no matter what the circumstance. That's a central theme with the documentary and we hope it continues an important discussion...Michael is an inspiration to millions and we are proud to be able to share his courageous story - in his own words - with our audience."
According to the Human Rights Campaign, this progress isn't equality's only victory in football this year:
"...The Human Rights Campaign (HRC) commended the football coaches at Alabama's two Southeastern Conference (SEC) schools. Both coaches have stated recently gay athletes are welcome on their respective teams. In a report by the NFL., University of Alabama Coach Nick Saban said he would sign a recruit regardless of sexual orientation. Saban's comments follow Auburn University Coach Gus Malzhan's similar statements made earlier this year.
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