On March 6, assistant football coach Ron Brown testified against an Omaha ordinance that would prohibit discrimination based on sexual orientation. Brown used his religious beliefs to oppose equality for the LGBT community. You can watch his testimony here.

Though we respect Brown’s right to his religious views, the University of Nebraska’s stated anti-discrimination policy prohibits discrimination based on sexual orientation. Given his testimony in Omaha, we fear that allowing Brown to remain on the University of Nebraska coaching staff may lead to violations of that school policy and send a harmful message to LGBT students and their allies.

We believe that a coach at any university must be equipped to mentor and empower a diverse student body, including LGBT individuals, regardless of his or her religious beliefs. Sports are an important part of many individuals’ lives and everyone should feel comfortable accessing them with dignity and respect, regardless of perceived or actual sexual orientation.

Interested in other opinions? Check out this op-ed discussing concerns about Brown's testimony.

Please join us in calling on the University of Nebraska to stand up against discrimination by cutting ties with Ron Brown.

Together,

Hudson Taylor,

Executive Director of Athlete Ally