Jason Collins has seen an outpouring of support since becoming the first active player in major American sports to come out as gay, including a phone call from President Barack Obama and a message of support from President Bill Clinton.
Collins announced on Monday that he is gay , breaking the de-facto barrier that had existed in major American sports. While a number of athletes have come out after their playing days are over — including former NBA player John Ameche — none had done so during their career.
At 34 years old and averaging less than one point a game in his last season, Jason Collins may be at the tail end of his career. He is a free agent after this season, but the former Washington Wizard is a 7-footer with strong defensive skills and good rotation skills, making him a good commodity even for his age.
Since his announcement, Jason Collins has seen support from across sports, entertainment, and politics. One of those messages came directly from Barack Obama, who called Collins on Monday evening to express his support.
“Here at the White House we view that as another example of the progress that has been made and the evolution that has been taking place in this country, and commend him for his courage, and support him in this effort and hope that his fans and his team support him going forward,” White House press secretary Jay Carney had said earlier in the day.
Michelle Obama also expressed her support for Jason Collins, tweeting:
So proud of you, Jason Collins! This is a huge step forward for our country. We’ve got your back! -mo
— FLOTUS (@FLOTUS) April 29, 2013
Bill Clinton was also quick to commend Jason Collins for his bravery. Collins was a classmate and friend of Chelsea Clinton while at Stanford University.
I’m proud to call Jason Collins a friend. wjcf.co/154piCi
— Bill Clinton (@billclinton) April 29, 2013
Clinton released a longer statement through his foundation. It read:
“I have known Jason Collins since he was Chelsea’s classmate and friend at Stanford. Jason’s announcement today is an important moment for professional sports and in the history of the LGBT community. It is also the straightforward statement of a good man who wants no more than what so many of us seek: to be able to be who we are; to do our work; to build families and to contribute to our communities. For so many members of the LGBT community, these simple goals remain elusive. I hope that everyone, particularly Jason’s colleagues in the NBA, the media and his many fans extend to him their support and the respect he has earned.”
Jason Collins said it was never his intention to become the first openly gay professional athlete in major American sports, but since he has he hopes to spark a conversation. Mission accomplished.