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Wed, Jan 09 2013 12:46:39

Sports

Fired Brian Burke cheered by fans for gay rights support

Brian Burke was fired by the Maple Leafs and replaced with new GM Dave Nonis. Many shocked fans also welcomed the news, while others took a moment to acknowledge his work with the LGBT community in Toronto.

  1. Goodbye #brianburke just got #fired time for a #change #leafs#leafsnation#teamleafs
    Galin. I
    ·
    Wed, Jan 09 2013 09:31:40
  2. ThatEricAlper
    Eric Alper@ThatEricAlper
    Say what you want about Toronto Maple Leafs firing Brian Burke, but his support of gay rights from a sports figure was second to none.
    Wed, Jan 09 2013 09:49:38
  3. Simontwelliott
    Simon Elliott@Simontwelliott
    Brian Burke did great work with the gay and lesbian community in Toronto. Was firm in his beliefs and convictions. Good luck to him. #Leafs
    Wed, Jan 09 2013 10:35:37

  4. Brian Burke's youngest son, Brendan, came out in 2009. Months after his announcement, he was fatally injured in a car crash.


    Since then, Burke has made numerous high-profile appearances on behalf of gay rights, speaking for organizations like PFLAG and walking in numerous PRIDE parades.

  5. RobertGibsonIII
    Robert Gibson@RobertGibsonIII
    There's somethin' about BIG TOUGH Brian Burke coming in to this city and then leaving and his biggest supporters are from the gay community.
    Wed, Jan 09 2013 10:01:19
  6. paulslawson
    paul lawson@paulslawson
    Sorry to hear Brian Burke is leaving Toronto, and hockey aside, I really respect his work on advancing LGBTQ rights.
    Wed, Jan 09 2013 10:51:30
  7. LeBradJames
    Brad James@LeBradJames
    Burke's been through hell off the ice the past few years and did a lot of work in TO for gay rights/charity. Sports is a nasty business.
    Wed, Jan 09 2013 10:16:54
  8. READ MORE:
  9. Maple Leafs fire GM Brian Burke: Reports
    The Toronto Maple Leafs have fired general manager Brian Burke, according to reports.
    Thestar

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