NHL Players Launch `You Can Play`` Ad to End Homophobia

Toronto Maple Leafs General Manager Brian Burke and his son Patrick have started a campaign to fight what they are calling casual homophobia in sports.

The campaign, called 'You Can Play,' is expected to premiere during Sunday's New York Rangers and Boston Bruins hockey game.

The campaign aims to fight homophobia in the locker room, where they say slurs are carelessly thrown out making it an uncomfortable atmosphere for gay, lesbian, bisexual and transgendered athletes.

Patrick says players should not be judged on sexual orientation.

"Judged only by their talent, character and work ethic in their sport," Patrick said.

There are currently no active and openly gay athletes in the NHL, NBA, NFL or MLB.

Although the campaign focuses on NHL players, Brian Burke says they hope to expand and help all closeted athletes come out and become role models for children and young athletes.

Take a stand.

Locker rooms should be safe and sports venues should be free from homophobia. Athletes should be judged on talent, heart and work ethic, not sexual orientation.