With homosexuality being outlawed in 36 Commonwealth countries, Jamaican swimmer Michael Gunning says he wants to be “part of the change.”

Gunning, who played for the United Kingdom before moving to Jamaica in 2016, has declared his retirement.

According to the UK government, Jamaica has a “hostile” attitude toward the LGBT population, and many forms of same-sex sexual behavior are prohibited.

He told, “I’ve been so terrified to go back to Jamaica.”

“I haven’t returned because I am concerned about my safety.”

“I’m quite forthright about my activism and want to help alter things, even the legislation. I want to be a part of that transformation and assist where I can.”

“Out in Jamaica, young people have connected with me and said they would love to be as open as I am,” he added.

“They’d love to tell their parents, but it’s just not the right situation for them to do so.”

Gunning, a two-time World Championship competitor, and holder of numerous Jamaican national records, decided not to compete in the Commonwealth Games in Birmingham this year.

Despite not having fulfilled all of his “dreams” in the pool, he believes the time has come to retire from the sport.

“Right now, the most influence I can have is on the opposite side of the sport, encouraging more people to swim and continuing to inspire people in various ways,” he remarked.