The America East and the UVM's Generation Out Athlete Team (GOAT) have partnered this weekend to conduct a You Can Play event in conjunction with the 2014 America East Outdoor Track & Field Championship at the University fo Vermont
During the event, there will be a table present near the warm-up area with informational items regarding the You Can Play Project. The America East track and field student-athletes will have ribbons placed on their racing bibs in an effort to show their support for the initiative and to increase awareness throughout the event. Spectators and athletes can learn more about the You Can Play Project and the rainbow ribbons by visiting the table with GOAT representatives. Pledges will be provided for spectators and athletes to sign to demonstrate their support for the LGBTQA community. Extra ribbons will be provided for anyone interested.
About the America East & You Can Play
The America East Conference is the first Division I conference to partner with You Can Play. Throughout the 2013-14 academic year, institutions have engaged in various initiatives such as You Can Play nights, You Can Play videos and locker-room campaigns in an effort to educate and increase awareness across campus. The America East conference office along with student-athletes, coaches and administrators from all America East institutions will combine with the You Can Play Project to help to educate and change the culture regarding the treatment of lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender athletes in the locker room and on the playing field.
About GOAT
Generation Out Athlete Team (GOAT) is the University of Vermont student athlete LGBTQA group. GOAT is a mix of allies and spectrum identifying individuals. While providing a safe space for its members, GOAT also hopes to provide outreach initiatives to the community. GOAT supports a message of acceptance, tolerance and inclusion within athletics. In order to increase awareness and support for LGBTQA athletes each bib will have a rainbow ribbon placed upon it. The rainbow is used worldwide to represent the diversity of the LGBTQA community. By wearing a rainbow ribbon all America East track and field athletes will be demonstrating their support for the LGBTQA community.