( Chicago, February 18th, 2015 ) — The National Gay and Lesbian Sports Hall of Fame is now accepting nominations for the Class of 2015. Nominees can be gay or lesbian individuals, organizations that have made tremendous strides in recognizing gay and lesbian athletes, or individual "Allies." The nomination form can be found at www.gayandlesbiansports.com and is due by March 1st, 2015. The Hall of Fame will induct its third class of honorees at a ceremony on July 24th, 2015 in conjunction with Out at Wrigley - the nation's largest "Gay Day" at a major league sporting event.
The LGBT Sports community celebrated an exciting year. According to Outsports.com ( an inaugural NGLSHOF inductee in 2013 ), "109 athletes, coaches, officials, sports administrators and sports media members came out to the world in 2014." Progress continues yet we must ensure momentum going forward solidifying acceptance, fighting for equality, and fostering fellowship amongst the LGBT sporting community.
"The NGLSHOF recognizes those who have stood up to LGBT stereotypes and worked to break down barriers by bringing people together for the good of sport," according to the group's executive director, Bill Gubrud.
The National Gay & Lesbian Sports Hall of Fame ( NGLSHOF ) was established to honor individuals and organizations whose achievements and efforts have enhanced the fields of sports and athletics for the LGBT community. Some of the current members of the Hall of Fame include Billy Bean, Esera Tuaolo, Tom Daley, Martina Navratilova, Greg Louganis, Billy Jean King, Jason Collins and the Chicago Cubs. A campaign is underway to raise funds in support of our efforts in the community and establish a physical location to display the contributions of inductees. A complete list of the inductees and the giving information can be found at www.gayandlesbiansports.com .
About the National Gay & Lesbian Sports Hall of Fame
Founded in 2013 and based in Chicago, IL, the National Gay & Lesbian Sports Hall of Fame's mission is to recognize both individuals and organizations whose achievements and efforts have enhanced sports and athletics for the LGBT community. In addition, the Hall of Fame will preserve the history of LGBT individuals who have impacted professional and amateur sports and provide outreach and education to the sporting world so that LGBT youth all across the nation feel welcome and safe to participate in any and all athletic related activities.