Mayor voices support for LGBT athletes in ‘You Can Play’ video

Mayor Hancock voiced his support for LGBT athletes in a "You Can Play" video, released on Feb. 11, 2014.

Mayor voices support for LGBT athletes in ‘You Can Play’ video

Mayor Hancock voiced his support for LGBT athletes in a "You Can Play" video, released on Feb. 11, 2014.

DENVER — Denver mayor Michael B. Hancock announced the release of his “You Can Play” video Tuesday, which is intended as a message of support and encouragement for LGBT athletes across Colorado.

Hancock is the first mayor in the U.S. to openly show his support for LGBT athletes, said a release from the city of Denver on Tuesday.

“I know the importance of team work both in and away from the game,” Hancock said in the video. “Including our friends and accepting our differences is the right thing to do. Together, we are a better team. We can all play.”

“Mayor Hancock is a great sports fan, and he sends an important message that teamwork extends beyond the field, court or rink, into classrooms and offices,” said Brian Kitts, You Can Play co-founder. “Acknowledging the contribution of everyone on a team, regardless of their background or orientation, is a key to building any successful team.”

Other Colorado pro athletes participating in You Can Play initiatives are Denver Nuggets’ Kenneth Faried, Randy Foye and Quincy Miller, as well as players from the Colorado Rapids, Denver Cutthroats, Colorado Mammoth and Denver Outlaws, said Tuesday’s release.