Hollywood Popular Artists

Jan 29th 2013, 19:29

This weekend's Super Bowl XLVII features the Baltimore Ravens facing off against the San Francisco 49ers, in a highly anticipated game! If you are like me, you're most excited about Beyonce's halftime show obvi. If you're more into the game itself, you're looking forward to the teams' coaches -- brothers Jim and John Harbaugh -- having a family face-off, dubbed the Harbowl. Want more to cheer about? Ladies and gentlemen, this Super Bowl is going to be very gay!

Let me explain by breaking down how each of the teams and their cities have had a history of LGBT rights advocacy.

+ Baltimore Ravens

Photo: Brendon Ayanbadejo campaigns for marriage equality in Maryland. (Twitter/@Brendon310)

Let's begin with Ravens linebacker Brendon Ayanbadejo, shall we? The 3-time Pro Bowler and father of two has decided to use his upcoming media frenzy as a chance to promote same-sex marriage. "It's one of those times when you're really passionate and in your zone," Ayanbadejo revealed to the Times. "And I got to thinking about all kinds of things, and I thought: 'How can we get our message out there?'"

Last fall, Ayanbadejo took being a straight ally to the next level by campaigning in his state of Maryland to legalize gay marriage. 52.4% of Marylanders voted to pass Question 6, which led the state to recognize same sex marriages beginning January 1, 2013. Brendon's work in Baltimore and the state of Maryland proves how having straight allies stand up for their LGBT brothers and sisters is SO essential in creating positive change.

+ San Francisco 49ers

From SF politician and LGBT icon Harvey Milk, to then-Mayor Gavin Newsom ordering the city to recognize same sex marriages in 2004 (which was later blocked statewide due the the passage of Prop 8), the 49ers hometown is an inspiring city that continues to push the boundary when it comes to equality. The 49ers, too, continued to break barriers for the city of San Francisco and were the first NFL team to create an It Gets Better video (above).

Join the Ravens and 49ers' quest for a Super Bowl ring marriage equality and rings for all by taking action below. Who are you rooting for this Sunday, the Baltimore Ravens or the San Francisco 49ers? Sound off in the comments below, or Tweet us.

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