The "You Can Play" Project is a cause "dedicated to ensuring equality, respect and safety for all athletes, without regard to sexual orientation."
The organization's motto of "if you can play, you can play" has swept through several sports on both the professional and collegiate levels. Last week, George Washington University became the first D.C. area program to support the movement. Tuesday, GW was joined by D.C. United, which became the first MLS team to advocate for the cause:
"We are united. We are united in pursuit of championships. We are united in our service to the community. We are united in support of all our teammates, coaches, and fans - gay or straight. All that matters to us is your talent, work ethic, and passion. If you can play, you can play."
That message was shared by head coach Ben Olsen, midfielder Chris Pontius and defender Mike Chabala in the PSA above, which will air during the "United Night Out" against the New England Revolution at RFK Stadium September 15.
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