Harrison Browne

First Transgender Professional Athlete | Outspoken Advocate for LGBTQ Rights | Heated Rivalry Actor

Diversity Equity & Inclusion Activists Athletes Campus Speakers

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Book Harrison Browne, Diversity Equity & Inclusion Speaker

About This Speaker

Harrison Browne made history as the first transgender athlete in North American professional sports, breaking barriers for future generations of LGBTQ+ athletes. During his three seasons in the National Women’s Hockey League (NWHL), he became a true pioneer. He played a key role in creating the first-ever transgender policy in professional sports, ensuring equality and respect for both transmen and transwomen.

In recognition of his groundbreaking efforts, The Hockey News named Harrison Browne one of hockey’s 100 Top People of Power. This honor highlights his impact as both an athlete and a trailblazer for inclusion in sports. Furthermore, he was appointed Inclusion Leader for the NWHL Advisory Board. This strengthened his role as a leader in advocating for LGBTQ+ rights in sports.

Before his professional career, Harrison Browne represented Team Canada at the 2011 U18 Championship in Stockholm, where he won a silver medal. He also played for Team Ontario in the 2011 Canada Winter Games, earning another silver medal. These accomplishments set the stage for his NCAA Div. 1 college hockey career. He started at Mercyhurst University, then transferred to the University of Maine. After graduation, Harrison joined the NWHL’s Buffalo Beauts. He earned an All-Star nomination in 2017 and helped the team win a championship.

After his athletic career, Harrison Browne continued advocating for LGBTQ+ rights in sport. He worked with the You Can Play organization and various Gay-Straight Alliances in schools and communities. His advocacy highlights the need for inclusivity and support for LGBTQ+ athletes across all sports.

Harrison and his sister Rachel Browne co-authored, Let Us Play: Winning the Battle for Gender Diverse Athletes (Beacon Press). Described as “A crucial playbook [for] athletes and nonathletes alike,” Let Us Play examines the controversy surrounding the inclusion of gender diverse people in sports. The authors, drawing on Harrison’s experience as a transgender professional athlete, offer fresh perspectives and clarity, forging a new path forward in the struggle for basic human rights and equality.

Harrison also began acting, finding roles in such projects as Heated Rivalry and Pink Light. Pink Light is inspired by Harrison’s pre-transition life experience at college, and in the world of competitive sports.

Harrison’s story is one of resilience, courage, and commitment to social change. He inspires audiences with his journey, challenges, and triumphs.

Videos

Speaking Topics: Harrison Browne

The 5 Pillars of Diversity and Inclusion

Why is Diversity and Inclusion important in the workforce? The answer to this question is that there are many different cultures, lifestyles, and ethnic groups out there and the only way we can attempt to view the world from all perspectives is to have representation within. Diversity is strength and Harrison will map out how to ensure your organization is strong from the inside out. He will share his experiences as a transgender individual in the work force and highlight the importance of being proactive rather than reactive in this expanding business world where inclusion is crucial to success.

Leadership: How it Can Make or Break Your Team

As an elite athlete Harrison has been surrounded by leadership for almost the last 2 decades. He has observed and experienced the framework that goes into what makes a great leader well… great! It does not matter whether you’re an employee or an athlete – leadership is essential in motivating and empowering individuals to take pride in their work and complete tasks to the best of their abilities. Harrison will take you through his journey and map out the qualities of the great leaders in his life and how they were able to bring out the best in those around them.

Teamwork and How to Actually Make the Dream Work

Immersed in the world of elite athletics, Harrison has two decades of experience watching high performance teams come together and win. He has done everything from winning a world championship to coming last place in his college division. Every milestone reached and game lost has been due to teamwork or lack thereof. Whether it’s on the ice, court, or the office all successful endeavours rely on teamwork and collaboration. As an expert in his field, Harrison will guide you through all the ins and outs on the importance of teamwork and how to achieve success together.