Johnny Weir doesn’t want an apology, but he would like people to think before they speak, thank you very much

By Sean Bugg on February 24, 2010

“I want them to think before they speak. I want them to think about not only the person they’re talking about, but also other people like that person. … What people as a majority need to do is think, and think about who they’re affecting. … I don’t want, 50 years from now, more boys and girls to go through this same thing.”

— U.S. Olympic figure skater Johnny Weir, speaking at a press conference about comments from hosts of a Canadian sports radio show, including a derogatory “joke” that Weir should undergo gender testing. Although the Quebec Gay and Lesbian Council has demanded a public apology, Weir said he’s not looking for an apology and doesn’t want the hosts who made the comments to be punished. “”I hope more kids can grow up like I did and more kids can feel the freedom to express themselves. … Out of ugly, I think the most important thing in life is to make something beautiful,” said Weir. (Washington Post)

Support Metro Weekly’s Journalism

These are challenging times for news organizations. And yet it’s crucial we stay active and provide vital resources and information to both our local readers and the world. So won’t you please take a moment and consider supporting Metro Weekly with a membership? For as little as $5 a month, you can help ensure Metro Weekly magazine and MetroWeekly.com remain free, viable resources as we provide the best, most diverse, culturally-resonant LGBTQ coverage in both the D.C. region and around the world. Memberships come with exclusive perks and discounts, your own personal digital delivery of each week’s magazine (and an archive), access to our Member's Lounge when it launches this fall, and exclusive members-only items like Metro Weekly Membership Mugs and Tote Bags! Check out all our membership levels here and please join us today!