Key facts
- Arizona women's basketball coach Becky Burke announced her wife's pregnancy on social media.
- The announcement was met with hateful comments from some individuals.
- Burke responded by stating her happiness is not subject to others' approval.
- She vowed not to let hate win and to stand up for her community.
- Burke emphasized her focus remains on her growing family and living authentically.
Arizona women's basketball coach Becky Burke has publicly addressed hateful comments received after announcing her wife's pregnancy on social media. Burke, entering her second season as head coach, shared the news on Monday, which was followed by a wave of negative reactions from individuals offended by a same-sex couple's pregnancy announcement.
In a statement posted Wednesday, Burke expressed disappointment with the negativity, stating, 'Our happiness isn’t yours to approve.' She added that while she anticipated opinions, the extent of the hateful comments was disheartening. Burke, who posted a photo with her wife Savannah and son announcing a daughter due in December, indicated that removing the post or feeling ashamed was not an option.
'I will not let hate win,' Burke declared. 'I will stand up and speak for those in our community who can’t.' She clarified that her focus is on her family and support system, and on continuing to live authentically. Burke led Arizona to a 12-18 record in her inaugural season, following three seasons at Buffalo.