'Athlete Ally' Founder Hudson Taylor to Speak on Campus
September 21, 2015
Hudson Taylor, founder and executive director of Athlete Ally, will bring his message of respect, inclusion and equality to UC Merced at 8:30 p.m. on Sept. 29 in the Dr. Lakireddy Auditorium.
As an athlete in high school and college, Taylor — a three-time NCAA All-American wrestler — often heard homophobic language and demeaning humor used, particularly in sports. Soon after enrolling in college, he befriended LGBT students in his theater classes and became aware of the pain caused by homophobic behavior.
Hudson, who isn’t gay, felt it was imperative he confront the reality that sports often marginalize LGBT athletes, coaches and others through systemic homophobia and transphobia. He decided to take action as a straight ally to change athletic culture for the better.
The event is presented by Office of Student Life, Department of Recreation and Athletics, Student Activities and Events, and LGBTQ+ Initiatives and is open to staff and faculty members. For more information, contact Onar Primitivo, coordinator of Social Justice Initiatives.
