Athlete Ally

Athlete Ally is a national nonprofit advocacy and education organization dedicated to ending homophobia and transphobia in sports and creating athletic environments where all people can participate safely. Founded in 2011 by collegiate wrestler Hudson Taylor, the organization mobilizes professional athletes, collegiate sports programs, and sports governing bodies across the United States.

The organization’s signature policy benchmarking initiative is the Athletic Equality Index, which evaluates LGBTQ+ inclusive policies and practices across NCAA Division I, II, and III athletic departments. Through the Athlete Ally Ambassador Program, professional Olympians, collegiate players, and coaching staff speak out publicly against discrimination, conduct sports equality clinics, and mentor young athletes. Staff also provide tailored policy consulting to major leagues and international governing bodies, advocating for transgender inclusion in competitive sports.

Education and youth engagement are delivered through the Champions of Inclusion curriculum, an interactive training module used by college athletic departments, high school coaches, and recreational leagues. On college campuses nationwide, student-led chapters organize educational panels, inclusive games, and policy reform campaigns. Athletes and coaches can access research reports, policy toolkits, and educational trainings online. Supporters and sports fans can get involved by joining regional ambassador networks, taking the sports equality pledge, or making tax-deductible financial contributions.