Sport and Sexuality

Sport, as a social institution, has been identified by numerous scholars and commentators as one of the most sexist and homophobic in the United States. Sport organizations, however, are not immune to the influences of the broader society where attitudes toward homosexuals have changed as a result of gay rights activism and greater representation of homosexuals in popular media. In January of 2008, a conversation designed to engage the NCAA membership of over 1200 institutions on issues related to promoting a supportive environment for lesbian, bi-sexual, gay, and transgender college athletes and athletic department personnel took place in Nashville, Tennessee. This dialogue is reflective of conversations that are occurring among sport governing bodies that set the tone for the experiences of athletes and fans nationwide and those who work in the sport industry. The purpose of this conference is to continue to fuel and extend the dialogue around sport, sexuality, and culture both in the United States and internationally.