When I was at Baylor, I wasn't fully happy because I couldn't be all the way out. It feels so good saying it: I am a strong, black lesbian woman.
Brittney GrinerRead
Once I came out in sports, I basically told myself, 'I'm coming out, officially. I wanted to be able to look in the mirror and tell myself that I was being true to me. I wanted to help the younger me, when I was a kid, give them somebody for them to look up to.
Interpretation
The quote emphasizes the importance of authenticity and representation, particularly in sports.
In this quote, Brittney Griner reflects on her decision to come out publicly as a member of the LGBTQ+ community, highlighting the personal significance of being true to oneself. She expresses a desire not only for self-acceptance but also to serve as a role model for younger individuals navigating similar challenges, indicating the profound impact that visibility and representation can have on others.
In practice
During a Pride event, I can use this quote to inspire others about the importance of being true to themselves.
When I was at Baylor, I wasn't fully happy because I couldn't be all the way out. It feels so good saying it: I am a strong, black lesbian woman.
People called me a dude and said there was no way I could be a woman. Some even wanted me to prove it to them. During high school and college, when we traveled for games, people would shout the same things while also using racial epithets and terrible homophobic slurs.
The outcome of fear is disappointment and shyness is frustration.
We are not weak if we make a proper use of those means which the God of Nature has placed in our power... the battle, sir, is not to the strong alone it is to the vigilant, the active, the brave.
Smears are not only to be expected but fought. Honor is to be earned, not bought.
Be as bold as the first man or [woman] to eat an oyster.
There's a storm inside of us. I've heard many team guys speak of this. A burning. A river. A drive.
I can't run away when I'm scared. I always have to attack. That's how I deal with seemingly difficult things.
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