Brian Boitano Explains How Russia’s Antigay Laws Influenced His Decision To Come Out Publicly

When the president named the delegation, and I read in the news what his message was of tolerance and diversity, I thought, I have to take this opportunity. I think the message is so strong. I’ve always wanted to represent my country as best I could, and I knew that I had to go past my comfort zone and reveal a private side of my life that I’ve never done before because I felt that the message is so strong. … I think that we have to be careful once we go over there. I think the statement is already being made by us being on the delegation and Billie Jean [King] and Caitlin [Cahow], and us standing together united as gay people showing that there is freedom of speech, and we are successful human beings and athletes. I think that speaks measures.”