While we make it a point not to fall madly in love with straight boys, we have something to admit. We're head-over-heels in love with Ben Cohen (above). Sure the retired Rugby World Cup champion is easy on the eyes, with his piercing baby blues, strong jawline and furry, beefy physique, but that's not (the only) reason why we adore him. He has taken the issue of bullying, especially homophobia, and made it his personal crusade to educate the public in the dangers of hate. While he could have easily just released a canned statement exalting his support of the gay community and left it at that, Cohen's passion extends far beyond just disingenuous PR tactics. He launched the Ben Cohen Stand-Up Foundation earlier this year, and is continuing to remain a vocal champion of gay rights and equality, making him the first straight sports star to dedicate his name to gay rights issues.“As athletes, it is not enough just to have strong bodies. We must have strong characters and use our voices to support those who need and deserve it. I am passionate about standing up against homophobia. It is time we stand up for what is right and support young people who are being harmed,” he says. To that we say Swoon.
As the latest development in his crusade, Cohen will be taking his message of anti-bullying to Source Events' Gay Rome to Venice Cruise. Along with seminal gay writer Armistead Maupin as guest speaker, Cohen will spreading the love on the cruise which promises to be a luxurious, inclusive outing for the gay community to enjoy some time at sea. Personally, we'd just like to spend some time on a boat where the dreamy Cohen is our captive so we could, uh, show him our appreciation for all the work he's done.
To learn more, check out Source Events' website.
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