The Human Rights Campaign (HRC) on Tuesday announced that Michael
Sam will be honored at its national Time to THRIVE conference in February.
Time to
THRIVE, which takes place February 13-15 in Portland, attracts hundreds of
people who play crucial roles in the lives of LGBT youth. Actress Ellen Page came out during last year's event.
“We are excited and privileged to recognize Michael Sam, and his
brave commitment to leading an authentic life in a profession that has been
historically unwelcoming to LGBT people,” Vincent Pompei, chair of Time to
THRIVE, said in a statement. “By coming out, Michael sent an
invaluable message to young LGBT Americans that anything is possible for them –
even playing in the NFL.”
Sam, the first openly gay player to be drafted by the NFL, said that
he was honored to be a part of the conference.
“I know first-hand what it's like to live and come out in spaces
where being LGBTQ isn't accepted, much less celebrated,” Sam said. “So I
understand the challenges that many of today's LGBTQ youth are facing – from
bullying to family rejection, even homelessness. These are heartbreaking
problems that no child, no young person should have to face alone, and that
people like teachers, counselors and social workers are uniquely positioned to
help overcome.”
“I'm honored to be part of such an important conference, where the
concerns of LGBTQ youth – particularly youth of color – are being elevated, and
where the educators and professionals who serve them have a unique opportunity
to learn how to better meet those needs. I truly believe that events like Time
to THRIVE can help create a better, more hopeful future for LGBTQ youth,” he
added.
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