Steven Jacobs' story invites us on a journey that starts from his days as a high school track star. A promising athlete, Steven's life took a courageous turn when he decided it was time he told his teammates he was gay. His journey, first shared in 2019, kicks off our Pride Pioneer series—a celebration honoring those who bring LGBTQ+ visibility onto playing fields.
Facing life's hurdles head on
To Steven, every 400-meter hurdle race mirrored his life's challenges. These races, notorious in track and field circles, demand no less than sheer strength and mental toughness. Steven poured his heart and soul onto that track, drawing parallels between his sport and his path towards self-acceptance.
It was a chilly December night when Steven sat alone, grappling with a monumental task—telling his track team at Ramapo High School in Franklin Lakes, New Jersey, about his sexuality. He soon realized that coming out required every ounce as much courage as his most grueling runs.
Living his truth
After mulling it over, Steven decided it was time. He reached out in a team group chat, revealing his authentic self. The vulnerability was intense—scarier than any race—but his teammates' supportive responses filled him with a sense not just relief but belonging, an affirmation lived by many in similar shoes.
The encouragement fueled Steven's openness beyond his friends, reinforcing how powerful acceptance can be.
Inspired by Ellen DeGeneres
A family night watching Ellen DeGeneres' stand-up special "Relatable" gave Steven a lightbulb moment. Ellen's words about coming out hit hard, underscoring visibility's role in comforting those still in hiding. Motivated by this sense, Steven felt a renewed mission: inspire others with his story.
When his teacher mentioned a TEDx conference at The University Of Miami that May, Steven considered taking his story public. Though new territory, he knew it was a chance not just about telling his tale, but about encouraging others with similar stories.
Steven's TEDx stage moment
Steven's TEDx talk was all about courage. He dove deep, talking about how coming out empowered him, not holding him back but setting him free. He shared how courage can snowball—each personal story could ignite someone else's truth.
Afterwards, Steven's high school track coach sent a message full pride and support, grounding him in his positive impact once more.
Courage and community's lasting impact
Steven's story shows how courage can ripple through communities. His tale and others like it urge honesty while dismantling shame and fear. With his track family standing behind him, Steven drew empowerment enough not just advocate LGBTQ+ rights but becoming their champion.
Now in New York University, Steven continues pushing his advocacy—he writes, participates in Best Buddies, and contributes towards social change.
His journey offers a testament—to living true and sharing stories' power. Steven aims his voice at creating a future where LGBTQ+ youth thrive safe and empowered.
If you're an LGBTQ+ athlete with a story, we're ready amplify your voice. Together, let's build an inclusive, understanding space.
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