San Francisco, CA, April 24, 2015)—Tonight, in a groundbreaking interview with Diane Sawyer of ABC News, Olympic Gold Medalist Bruce Jenner publicly talked about being a transgender woman.

“There is nothing more important to human dignity than being able to live an authentic life. This is a central aspiration of the struggle for LGBTQ liberation,” said NCLR Executive Director Kate Kendell. “We congratulate Jenner’s quest to realize that goal. However, while this is a cultural milestone, the real-life experience of transgender people in this country is too often a denial of safety and fundamental dignity.”

NCLR Sports Project Director Helen Carroll added: “The courageous action Jenner has taken as a sports role model will inspire and strengthen transgender athletes around the world. Jenner’s bravery will inspire our transgender youth to shoot for the gold in all levels of sport.”