Notre Dame’s Hidalgo Issues Public Apology for Anti-Same-Sex Marriage Post
Notre Dame women’s basketball guard Hannah Hidalgo has issued a public apology for sharing a video last July that contained anti-same-sex marriage sentiments. The video, featuring conservative commentator Candace Owens criticizing the marriage of Don Lemon, sparked significant backlash and controversy, continuing to reverberate months later.
Hidalgo initially addressed the incident in an April Players’ Tribune article, acknowledging the post as a “mistake” and admitting to the emotional distress it caused. However, she refrained from a direct apology or addressing accusations of homophobia at that time.
The apology finally came during a recent episode of ESPN’s “Full Court Press.” “What I reposted hurt a lot of people,” Hidalgo stated. “I took it down, of course. I want to apologize to the people that I hurt because that is never my intention. I love everyone regardless of what skin color, what belief, what religion, regardless of what you think because the Lord calls us to love everyone.”
Hidalgo vehemently denied being homophobic, stating, “Absolutely not. Um, I’m — I have friends that are homosexual. I have teammates that I play with every single day, practice with them every day that are homosexual too. And that doesn’t stop me from loving them. I will go to war for any single one of my teammates, and they know that.”
The incident drew criticism from various figures, including former Notre Dame coach Muffet McGraw, who described Hidalgo’s actions as a “poor choice” and expressed disappointment at the potential harm inflicted on her teammates. ESPN reporter Holly Rowe also commented on the incident, highlighting the inclusive nature of the WNBA and the potential impact on Hidalgo’s relationships within the basketball community.
Hidalgo, who openly identifies as a devout Christian, clarified that her apology was not a retraction of her faith. “I don’t want anyone to think I’m apologetic for my faith, but what I am sorry for is that I hurt people and that I hurt people closest to me,” she emphasized. The incident underscores the complexities of balancing personal beliefs with public actions, particularly for high-profile athletes navigating social media and the scrutiny of public opinion. While Hidalgo’s apology marks a significant step, the lingering effects of the controversy highlight the importance of mindful social media engagement for athletes and public figures alike. The incident continues to fuel conversations about inclusivity, social media responsibility, and the intersection of faith and public life within the athletic community.
