Saints player helps break down barriers in sports with first-ever LGBTQ+ youth football camp

Khalen Saunders, a New Orleans Saints defensive tackle, recently hosted the first-ever football camp specifically for LGBTQ+ youth in his hometown of St. Louis. Inspired by his brother Kameron, who is part of the LGBTQ+ community, Saunders aimed to create a safe, inclusive environment in sports.

Acceptance, empathy, and football

Kameron, who is a dancer and choreographer who recently performed as a dancer on Taylor Swift’s Eras Tour, joined Khalen at the camp, which took place on July 5.

“I think [Kameron] has been to almost every single game that I’ve had, from when I was eight to ‘til now, so he’s always been there,” Saunders said. “So my intention with this camp is to unify everybody and just promote positivity and empathy amongst others as far as just being accepting of everybody and showing everybody love.

“But also, with my brother, being able to come to all my events and feel comfortable being himself, I would want anybody who has a brother or family member in general that comes to their sporting events to feel safe and welcomed when they when they attend that.”

The camp was part of his foundation’s outreach and sought to challenge stigma, promote empathy, and celebrate athletic ability regardless of sexual orientation or gender identity. While the event received praise from many, Saunders also faced backlash, which he addressed with grace and a focus on education and acceptance.

“Let’s break that [cycle] and educate our children. That way they know the differences, they know the feelings, they know everything,” Saunders said. “And then we can progress towards a better society, instead of creating division and hate amongst things that could easily be out ruled by simple education.”

It was clear that those in attendance were grateful for the opportunity to participate in a football camp without fear, and felt more than just tolerated, but welcomed as well.

“What this camp really did is, it made people feel like they belong,” said one woman.

“I really like the fact that there’s girls here,” said another. “It’s not just for boys only.”

“It’s a way to make sure that everyone knows that they have a place in this world and everyone knows that they have a place specifically within sports because that’s what this camp is all about,” said Saunders. “It’s just showing acceptance and really just doing all of this for the love of the sport itself, not for anything else besides.”

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