Two Olympic gold-medal swimmers have endorsed an upcoming Equality Swim created by Equality California. Both Gary Hall and Lenny Krayzelburg are straight and have a history of supporting LGBT equality.
“I believe everyone should have equal protection under the law, no matter what their sexual orientation,” Hall said.
Hall said he is excited to see his two passions—swimming and the fight for equality—come together for one event.
Krayzelburg said that his support of the swim is centered on the fear so many LGBTs have of coming out in professional sports.
“I think this event gives the sport of swimming a fun, fantastic way to stand up for equality,” he said. “I look at everyone, no matter what their sexual orientation, as equal.”
Both athletes said full equality means marriage rights for gays and lesbians.
The Equality Swim is on Sept. 25 and swimmers will swim 1.7 miles along the coast of Malibu to raise awareness and funds for LGBT rights. Out Olympic diver Greg Louganis is expected to attend and voiced his praise for the two divers.
“For me, sports is the perfect way to provide a message of a hopeful future to our community, particularly LGBTQ teens,” Louganis said. “I’m grateful to see so much support for the Swim for Equality, particularly from two Olympic heroes like Gary and Lenny.”
