Zach Herrin, a NASCAR driver, had to overcome significant obstacles to follow his dream of racing professionally. However, once he reached the top, he realized that there was still one part of his identity he hadn’t yet confronted: his sexuality. In a recent interview, Herrin explained how he always felt like an outsider in the motorsports industry, which can be pretty one-sided when it comes to gender, religion, and sexuality. Herrin knew that if he were to come out, it would mean walking away from everything he had worked towards. However, he found the courage to take that step and has since been growing and exploring his identity as a gay man.
Despite the challenges of being an out driver in a sport with a conservative fan base, Herrin made his professional NASCAR debut in November 2022. Unfortunately, what was meant to be a multi-season partnership with a big brand fell through, leaving him feeling discouraged. But for the new season, Herrin teamed up with Lambda Legal, the oldest and largest national LGBTQ+ legal organization. Herrin proudly wore the Lambda Legal logo on his uniform and car and spoke to the media about the organization’s mission and the dangers of anti-LGBTQ+ legislation like Florida’s “don’t say gay” bill.
Lambda Legal CEO Kevin Jennings initially had reservations about sponsoring Herrin, but when he learned that the first race of the season was in Florida, where Lambda Legal has been fighting against discriminatory legislation, he agreed to partner with Herrin. Together, they made a bold statement by showcasing one of NASCAR’s only out drivers at one of the biggest races of the year in a state fighting against LGBTQ+ rights.
Herrin is now using his platform to be a role model for young LGBTQ+ people, especially those trying to break through in industries historically hostile to the community. He hopes that his partnership with Lambda Legal will help raise awareness and understanding of the challenges faced by LGBTQ+ people within the motorsports industry and beyond. Herrin commends NASCAR for making strides towards inclusivity, such as releasing Pride merch, but he also believes there is still much to be done.
As Herrin continues his racing career, he hopes to inspire others to be their authentic selves and to work towards creating a more accepting and inclusive society. By partnering with Lambda Legal, he is not only raising awareness of LGBTQ+ issues but also showing that there is a place for diversity and inclusion in the world of motorsports.
