GLAAD & NFL Host ‘Night Of Pride’ Ahead Of Super Bowl LVIII

A most excellent time was had last night in Las Vegas as GLAAD and the NFL hosted a “Night of Pride” ahead of Super Bowl LVIII, celebrating LGBTQ inclusion in professional sports and the “NFL’s commitment to LGBTQ players and fans.” This is the third year in a row that the Super Bowl event has been held. Outside the event was a purple carpet symbolizing support for LGBTQ youth with a stand against bullying in the LGBTQ community. Inside the Legend Lounge at Caesars Palace, GLAAD President and CEO Sarah Kate Ellis and NFL Chief Diversity and Inclusion Officer Jonathan Beane welcomed the crowd, and the event was hosted by a dapper Lance Bass (NYSNC).

During the evening, we got a preview of the CBS Sports’ LGBTQ flag football segment — Football For Everyone — that will be airing on the CBS Sports Network this weekend. https://youtu.be/csO89JPJ_OA?si=JY5SwhGhBUuHEsUO The event featured a panel discussion moderated by LZ Granderson on how inclusion in sports advances acceptance for LGBTQ people. Taking part in the conversation were veteran pass rusher Carl Nassib, the NFL’s first openly gay player to play in a regular-season game, along with trailblazer and NFL replay assistant Desiree Abrams and Kevin Maxen, the first out male NFL coach.

The evening, presented by Smirnoff with additional partners Starter and Google, also showcased a spectacular performance by out singer-songwriter VINCINT.