Originally from Louisiana, Cameron Blake attended Louisiana State University before moving to Los Angeles to pursue a career in acting. She also enjoys writing and is currently working in pre-production on an action movie with one of her best friends, as they both have black belts and are dedicated to their martial arts training.
Blake first learned of Los Angeles-based Outloud Sports through a kickball league and a friend’s extensive research into recreational sports in the city. Blake also played both basketball and softball as a child, but said, “It had been many years since I’d been involved in sports, and my competitive nature really needed some attention.”
“One of my best friends made a spreadsheet of recreational sports we could play in our neighborhood and two other friends wanted to play too, so we ended up playing flag football,” Blake said. “It’s been an amazing experience and I look forward to it every Monday night!”
After all, Blake has been involved with OutLoud Sports since last summer and, more specifically, the flag football league since last fall.
For Blake, the best part of the organization is the community.
“It’s great to be around people who are so open and caring, and yet so competitive and talented,” Blake said. “What’s great is that we all want to win, but at the same time, we’re just friends and we want to help each other grow as a sport and as people.”
Blake said the Rams’ support of the Outloud flag football league is crucial from both an inclusivity and growth standpoint.
“This is so important for these leagues because not only does it show support for minority groups that we all know have a harder time getting support in general, it also gives us an avenue to build community and friendships that are important for a variety of reasons,” Blake said. “I think most LGBTQ+ people would agree that they felt some form of isolation or loneliness growing up and it can be tough not having organizations like this that they can turn to to bond over a mutual love and joy for things like sports. Having a large, respected organization like the Rams supporting communities like this is important so we can maintain and grow these spaces.”
Blake cites his mother as his inspiration when it comes to living life authentically, mainly because she always encouraged him to be who he is.
“In fact, when we talk on the phone and I’m worried about something, she usually asks me, ‘Whose life are you living, who are you living for?’ and my answer is, ‘My own life,'” Blake said. “She’s been so supportive of my LGBTQ+ journey, and I’m so grateful for her guidance and love.”
According to Blake, being a better ally to the LGBTQ+ community can start with individuals treating them as “normal people.”
“We don’t need to receive special consideration from individuals, it would just make us feel abnormal. In fact, it’s totally normal to participate in activities like this,” Blake said. “I think better support for organizations comes from holding space for our community and letting them know how accepted it is. It’s huge that the Los Angeles Rams sponsored Outloud and actually featured us, it’s huge that they’ve given us a space to meet and interact every week. Organizations should continue to do that and create spaces where we feel safe and supported.”
When it comes to celebrating Pride Month, Blake noted there are a variety of ways to do so.
“Parades, outings, events, you name it!” she says. “Pride month is amazing. Personally, I’m looking forward to the big concerts and the WeHo parade. I think the best way to celebrate is to go out, wear colorful clothes, cheer, and just have fun. Like I said, I’m from Louisiana so I’m no stranger to Mardi Gras, and LA Pride month is like our own version of Mardi Gras for this community! The best way to celebrate is to have fun and show your support in whatever way you can!”
