https://youtube.com/watch?v=Olc5C4SXAYM

It's not too often that an essay from a local sportscaster goes viral, but that is the power of the words chosen by Dale Hansen of WFAA in Dallas. Hansen was instrumental in breaking the SMU scandal almost 30 years ago and has remained one of the most respected voices in local sportscasting around the country. His thoughts on Michael Sam's coming out from earlier this week has accumulated more than 1 million views on YouTube. In the essay he connects Sam's story to other steps forward towards equality in football and even quotes Audre Lorde in saying, "It is not our differences that divide us, it is our inability to recognize, accept, and celebrate those differences."

Hansen is no stranger to making brave announcements. Two years ago he spoke out as a victim of sexual abuse for the first time after the scandal at Penn State came to light.

I'd disagree with the Dallas Observer's sentiment that we need more old white guys like Dale Hansen.

We need more people like Dale Hansen. Period.

[WFAA]

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