With Great Power...
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Obviously, Weir doesn't feel he owes it to anyone to come out. Or maybe he's not gay at all. Then again, when was the last time a heterosexual celebrity had any trouble saying he or she was straight. People who avoid the question usually feel they have something to hide. (Waves at Sean Hayes and Ricky Martin)

If Weir is gay, then why on earth won't he come out? It's not like the vast majority of the people who follow skating don't already assume he is anyway. Personally, I was shocked to learn he wasn't out and proud. The way the announcers talk about him, I just assumed he wore rainbow necklaces to practice. And I'm hardly alone. According to a poll in the Chicago Tribune, 95% of the respondents don't care if he's gay or not.

Like many celebrities who refuse to come out, it probably boils down to fear. Actors are afraid they will lose out on roles, singers are afraid their sales will drop, and while being openly gay probably wouldn't hurt Weir's scores on the ice, it could potentially affect his endorsement possibilities.

Of course, in many cases, those fears are largely unfounded. While I'm sure coming out causes celebrities to lose a few fans, that loss is more than likely offset by the support gained from the LGBT community. Being openly gay certainly hasn't hurt Sir Ian McKellen's career. Ellen DeGeneres is enjoying more success than ever, raking in awards and ratings for her talk show. Melissa Etheridge is a rock music icon, and her recent victory over breast cancer touched the hearts of millions. I could go on, but you get the idea. I can't think of a single celebrity whose career has been hurt simply by coming out, at least in recent years.

Openly gay celebrities are important. Having a talented and respected sport's figure like Sheryl Swoopes come out of the closet has a major impact on people. Not only did she give gay women of color someone to look up to, she also added another dimension to the public face of the LGBT community. The very act of her coming out forced many people to examine their feelings towards gay people. Every famous person who comes out becomes a powerful force in the fight for equality..
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