NFL’s first out trans cheerleader won’t return next season
Justine Lindsay. (Instagram @jus_lindsay_)
Justine Lindsay. (Instagram @jus_lindsay_)
Justine Lindsay, who made history when she became the NFL’s first trans cheerleader, has said she won’t be returning to the Carolina TopCats when the new season starts next month.
Lindsay, who has been part of the Carolina Panthers’ cheerleading squad since 2022, told Outsports: “For now, I’m focusing on my pageantry work and community involvement, striving to be recognised not just as an NFL cheerleader but as someone making a positive impact, especially during these uncertain times.”
She didn’t give a reason for the decision but added: “Being in the NFL was a stepping stone to get me where I need to be. My focus is to educate and uplift the younger generation of leaders to focus on their dreams and goals.
“Don’t let a president who is delusional stop them from reaching their goals whether they are trans, African American, not American.”
@pinknews Justine Lindsay, who made history by becoming the first transgender cheerleader in the NFL, will not be returning to the Carolina Panthers this season. Lindsay confirmed to Outsports: “For now, I’m focusing on my pageantry work and community involvement, striving to be recognized not just as an NFL cheerleader, but as someone making a positive impact, especially during these uncertain times". Lindsay did not comment further about why she chose not to return, but did add: “Being in the NFL was a stepping stone to get me where I need to be, and God is blessing me each and everyday giving me the breath to do the work and change lives. My focus is to educate and uplift the younger generation of leaders to focus on their dreams and goals. Don’t let a president who is delusional stop them from reaching their goals whether they are trans, African American, not American, etc.” After being a prominent figure for LGBTQ+ in the world of professional sports, Lindsay is now focusing on her next career goals and community work. #transgender #NFL #transwoman #carolinapanthers #americanfootball #lgbtqia ♬ NFL on FOX Theme Song – NFLonFOX
Describing her first appearance at the Bank of America stadium in Charlotte, North Carolina, as a “dream come true”, Lindsay said: “This is a moment I will never forget.”
The seemingly sudden – to some – appearance of male cheerleaders, including Blaize Shiek and Louie Conn, who joined the Minnesota Vikings’ squad in May, and both of whom are gay, has ruffled some right-wing feathers. recently.
In response, Shiek posted a photo of the pair of them in their uniforms, writing: “Wait… did someone say our names?” And, as reported by Scene Mag, the Vikings voiced support for pair.
“Male cheerleaders have been part of previous Vikings teams and have long been associated with collegiate and professional cheerleading. We support all our cheerleaders and are proud of the role they play as ambassadors of the organisation,” a spokesperson said.
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