Amidst rising anti-LGBTQ+ laws in the US, tennis fans may have just found a safe shelter to be themselves. The historic Stonewall Inn in New York City has designated the US Open as a safe space for the LGBTQ+ community. While queer fans have welcomed this decision with open arms, conservatives are deeply unhappy with this development.
The United States Tennis Association (USTA) worked alongside SIGBI Safe Spaces, which stands for the values of Stonewall. The USTA underwent a rigorous 10-step process before being handed the certificate.
Marissa Grimes, who is USTA’s Chief Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Officer, believes that this will amplify the voices of the community on the biggest stage in tennis. It is further proof of their ongoing efforts to promote freedom, equality, and safety for all. Grimes was joined by Rannae Stubbs, who received the certificate that cemented the event as a safe space for all.
The US Open has been certified by New York City’s historic Stonewall Inn—the birthplace of the LGBTQ+ rights movement in the U.S.—as a safe space for the LGBTQ+ community.
— US Open Tennis (@usopen) August 21, 2023
The main aim of this process is to ensure inclusivity and promote equality. LGBTQ+ employees, players, coaches, and even fans now fall under the umbrella of their protection. For this certification, both the USTA and US Open employees underwent sensitivity training.
A few weeks ago, the USTA undertook a policy that could see the inclusion of trans athletes very soon. Unfortunately, not everyone is welcoming of the USTA’s policy, including Martina Navratilova. But while Navratilova is unhappy about it, Billie Jean King stands firm in her support.
It is a wonderful undertaking, and a step in the right direction to foster feelings of inclusivity. It is also a great honor for the USTA since Stonewall is the birthplace of the LGBTQ+ rights movement.
How has the designation of the US Open as an LGBTQ+ safe space been received?
This latest development has sparked a polarizing reaction. While queer fans and allies have embraced it, this decision has also ruffled the feathers of conservative fans.
Fan comments ranged from slamming the US Open for its ‘wokeness’ to outright homophobia. A user took this opportunity to comment, “There are only two genders.” Here are a few examples of how this news was received.
This is amazing! 🥳
— Dan Meyer (@DMeyerNews) August 21, 2023
There are only two genders: male and female. End of story.
— Mensud (@Mensud4) August 21, 2023
Wokeness at its max…
— El Guaro (@hgrateron) August 21, 2023
In what ways exactly is it a safer space now compared to last year?
— Tony Lascari (@Tony_Lascari42) August 21, 2023
The US Open being granted a safe space for the LGBTQ+ community will hopefully lead to other events taking a leaf out of their book. The last Grand Slam of the year begins on August 28th.