Two days ago, Brian Anderson came out as gay, and he was the first male professional skateboarder to ever do so. Brian was already regarded as one of the best in skateboarding, with pro boards for Toy Machine and Girl, starting 3D Skateboards and even earning Thrasher's Skater of the Year in 1999. For the full list of accolades and praise, see what I wrote HERE for Skateboards.com, but he has fully deserved his long and meaningful career (now 18 years pro).
Brian impressed and appeased all the kids reading the magazines. He pleased all his sponsors with some of the best video clips and photos, and he delivered content to the skate nerds of multiple generations. But what's especially unique about Brian is that he did all of that while keeping his individuality alive. He was always a little different from the other skaters in the van. He was always a bit more reserved than the rest. Always friendly and easy-going, and at the same time keeping a secret.
BA won our [skaters'] hearts before there was ever a coming out, and maybe that was part of his plan. Now that such a revered figure in skateboarding has made an appearance as openly gay, I hope that it will be easier for other skateboarders to be themselves at an earlier age. Brian is 40 years old and just came out to the world, but skateboarders of the future should be able to grow and develop as human beings WHILE being honest with themselves and others, and this might be a huge step forward.
Skateboarding culture has been known to be somewhat homophobic or hetero male dominated, but so much of our world also is. This isn't the first milestone, but its near the beginning. With the correct momentum, this could be a major shift in a culture that is quickly becoming "cooler" and more influential than ever. And most of all, RESPECT to Brian Anderson (@nolimitsoldier) for being true to himself and coming out in a way that could make a large impact.
- 7Ply Epic
BA won our [skaters'] hearts before there was ever a coming out, and maybe that was part of his plan. Now that such a revered figure in skateboarding has made an appearance as openly gay, I hope that it will be easier for other skateboarders to be themselves at an earlier age. Brian is 40 years old and just came out to the world, but skateboarders of the future should be able to grow and develop as human beings WHILE being honest with themselves and others, and this might be a huge step forward.
Skateboarding culture has been known to be somewhat homophobic or hetero male dominated, but so much of our world also is. This isn't the first milestone, but its near the beginning. With the correct momentum, this could be a major shift in a culture that is quickly becoming "cooler" and more influential than ever. And most of all, RESPECT to Brian Anderson (@nolimitsoldier) for being true to himself and coming out in a way that could make a large impact.
- 7Ply Epic
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