Athlete Ally Responds to Jets Quarterback Tim Tebow Cancelling Visit to Anti-Gay Church

NEW YORK, NEW YORK - New York Jets quarterback Tim Tebow announced this morning on Twitter that has cancelled his scheduled April appearance at the First Baptist Church of Dallas. The megachurch's pastor, Robert Jeffress, is a longtime antagonist of LGBT equality. 

Athlete Ally Founder and Executive Director, Hudson Taylor, commented on Tebow's decision:

"I applaud Tim Tebow's decision to cancel his appearance. Regardless of his reasoning, his absence serves as a reminder that the discrimination of gay and lesbian athletes and individuals has no place in sports or society. I hope Tim will take this opportunity to speak out for respect and acceptance of all people, regardless of a persons sexual orientation."

Brian Ellner, who led the Campaign for New York Marriage and who serves on the Athlete Ally Board of Directors, added: "Tim Tebow's decision underscores the major cultural change we are seeing in sports.  We are at a cultural tipping point with more and more athletes standing on the right side of history."

Tebow tweeted:
"While I was looking forward to sharing a message of hope and Christ's unconditional love with the faithful members of the historic First Baptist Church of Dallas in April, due to new information that has been brought to my attention, I have decided to cancel my upcoming appearance. I will continue to use the platform God has blessed me with to bring Faith, Hope and Love to all those needing a brighter day. Thank you for all of your love and support. God Bless!"