Nike and US National Coming Out Day

We expect to have a report from friend-of-the-Gay-Games Jeff Sheng in the next few days. In the meantime, here's a report from Byron Beck. For his photos of the event, click HERE. 

On Monday I had the great honor of joining my partner, Juan Martinez, on the campus of the Nike World Headquarter's in Beaverton, Oregon. The occasion was National Coming Out Day and we joined others there for an art exhibit that Nike had recently installed in the Mia Hamm Building called "Fearless."

A compelling photography series by artist Jeff Sheng the work features singular photos of out gay athletes primarily in the uniforms of their given sport. It was also a chance for out employees of Nike and their allies to gather to support Nike's Coming Out Week.

By the way, Sheng is also the photographer behind "Don't Ask, Don't Tell," a photo book that features closeted members of military. I'm so happy that today U.S. District Judge Virginia Phillips ordered the government to stop enforcing the "don't ask, don't tell" policy, ending the military's 17-year-old ban on openly gay troops.

[Jeff's DADT exhibition is still on in Los Angeles. More info HERE.]

And as for Nike—and "the network" of folks who are working to end homophobia in sports (including the incredible Robert Goman)—I can't think of a better company to take on this good fight. Congrats Nike, on a great show for an even greater cause.