President Obama made a surprise video statement to help open the international Gay Games in Cleveland on Saturday.
"It's been remarkable to see the games thrive over the years," Obama said on tape about the event begun in 1982. "We've also seen America change in that time."
Obama told the athletes, coaches, families, and spectators that he is proud of his administration's record on equal rights for gays and lesbians.
Speaking to athletes from other countries -- some of which have anti-gay laws -- Obama said: "The United States stands with you, and for your human rights."