Over the weekend, Jason Collins made history by becoming the first openly gay man to play in the NBA when he joined the Brooklyn Nets under a 10-day contract. Today, GLAAD released "Out of the Closet: Onward to Victory," a graphic that celebrates lesbian, trans, bi, and gay athletes throughout history whose visibility in the athletic arena has furthered equality.
A timeline extended back to 1975 begins by honoring David Kopay, the first former NFL player to come out as gay to the public, and runs through the present, with NFL hopeful Michael Sam. It features professional athletes from around the world in a variety of sports. From Puerto Rico, Brazil, Finland, and beyond, and in diving, pole vaulting, mixed martial arts, baseball, basketball, and more, these athletes have defied stereotypes and served as courageous leaders in the sporting and LGBT communities.
Be sure to share the timeline below to honor these trail blazers:
