Standing Up Against Homophobia

The University of Washington was honored to welcome international rugby superstar Ben Cohen MBE to campus for a conversation about ending homophobia in sports and bullying in schools. Ben is joined by special guests from varying aspects of sports in a panel discussion about the movement to end homophobia in the athletic world.

The English star is on a North American tour to discuss his new foundation, The Ben Cohen Stand Up Foundation, which supports organizations that advance equality and combat bullying against LGBT (Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender) youth. Ben, who is married with two daughters, is among the world’s great athletes, ranking second in all-time scoring for England. He is first, however, among straight professional athletes to focus his philanthropic efforts for the benefit of the LGBT community.

Town Hall Panelists with Ben Cohen:
David Kopay, UW graduate and America’s first professional athlete (NFL) to come out
Jennifer Hoffman, Assistant Professor, UW College of Education, Center for Leadership in Athletics
Jennifer Self, Director, Q Center, UW’s LGBTQ resource and services center
Shannon Kelly, Associate Athletic Director, UW Intercollegiate Athletics

5/27/2011