Athlete Ally Responds to Alleged Homophobic Slur Directed at Collin Martin
October 1, 2020 (New York, NY) — Athlete Ally responded today to news that at last night’s USL Championship match against Phoenix Rising, the San Diego Loyal walked off the field in protest in response to an alleged anti-gay slur directed at out gay player and Athlete Ally Ambassador Collin Martin. This incident comes a week after a racial slur was directed at a San Diego Loyal player by LA Galaxy II player Omar Ontiveros, who was then cut by his club. San Diego Loyal forfeited that match in protest as well.
“Every athlete deserves to play the game they love free from racism, homophobia, transphobia or any discrimination of any kind,” said Hudson Taylor, Executive Director of Athlete Ally. “When these incidents do occur, it’s important to see swift action in support of the players who were targeted and holding accountable those who perpetuated abuse. Collin Martin and the unnnamed player from last week’s game deserve better from the athletic community, and we will continue to fight for sport to be all we know it can and should be. We commend San Diego Loyal for quickly and steadfastly supporting their athletes and their values as an inclusive team. The rising tide of athlete activism has shown the power that comes from athletes refusing to stay silent in the face of hatred and injustice, and we need that power now like never before.”
In the first half a member of Phoenix Rising used a homophobic slur directed at Collin Martin. In response we have decided to walk off the pitch in protest.
— San Diego Loyal (@SanDiegoLoyal) October 1, 2020
Last week we made it loud and clear that we do not stand for racism or homophobia. Nothing has changed this week. 🏳️🌈✊🏿 #AllBlackLivesMatter
— San Diego Loyal (@SanDiegoLoyal) October 1, 2020
I couldn’t be more proud to be part of this club. What’s the point of the BLM jerseys/armbands, the kneeling before every game and the commitment to ending racism if we don’t address it when it happens right before our eyes? This is NEVER acceptable and we will not stand for it. https://t.co/9ilkYrUHyR
— Landon Donovan (@landondonovan) September 26, 2020