Former Ontario Hockey League player Brock McGillis has made huge strides and has opened a lot of doors for gay athletes.
He was the first professional hockey player to openly come out as gay a few years ago and now he regularly speaks to young people, on teams and at schools, about his experience.
McGillis is from Sudbury and was back in his hometown Wednesday to attend a screening of the Canadian documentary, 'Standing on the Line,' that he is featured in, on the subject of homophobia.
It’s a difficult subject matter for anyone to share, much less professional athletes, and McGillis admits he was a little apprehensive after being approached by the film’s director.
"We went to a couple movies together and I got to know him a little bit, and I said 'okay. I feel like I can trust that you’re going to share my story in a type of way that I would want it shared,'" said McGillis.
The film highlights the mental health toll for athletes, the self-harm they experienced and the personal demons they overcame to play the sport they love, while realizing who they truly are.
Denis McCready is the film's producer.
"Homophobia in professional support is, it should wither away. It should go away. It’s not something we need in professional sport," said McCready.
McGillis came out roughly three years ago and now he spends his time working with groups like the 'You Can Play Project,' tackling homophobia head-on.
"Ultimately, I think we have to educate parents at a young age, to create an environment that’s inclusive to everyone,” said McGillis. "I believe that we’re not, we’re just scratching the surface on the perceptions, the language, the way people are treated in sports if they’re part of the LGBTQ plus community.”
McGillis answered questions at the film festival screening and is hopeful people will leave realizing there is more work to be done.
(Brock McGillis answers questions at Cinéfest Q and A. Ian Campbell/CTV Northern Ontario)
"I think films like this will shed a light on it and allow people or inspire people to take a step and do a little extra and support people who are different from themselves,” said McGillis.
Officials at the National Film Board are hoping to have the film shown across the country in community screenings, so other Canadians can join in on the conversation.
