The recent decision by the NHL to discontinue the practice of teams wearing themed warmup jerseys, including those specifically designed for Pride nights, has drawn criticism from various corners. You Can Play, a prominent advocate for the inclusion of 2SLGBTQIA+ individuals in the sports world, expressed its concerns and disappointment regarding this change. While the NHL cites distraction as the primary reason for this decision, it is important to consider the significance of these jerseys and the impact they have had on promoting visibility, acceptance, and a true sense of belonging.
It is worth emphasizing, at this point, that no single aspect can fully represent or encompass support for the community. Pride must be celebrated year-round, and efforts to create safer, more diverse, and more inclusive spaces within hockey and within any sporting organization that recognizes the need, should be ongoing and purposeful. You Can Play remains committed to collaborating with the NHL, individual teams, players, agents, and the NHLPA to ensure that this critical work continues.
The decision to remove themed warmup jerseys stems from concerns that they have become a distraction, diverting attention from the game and the causes they are intended to support. NHL commissioner Gary Bettman explains that by eliminating these jerseys, the focus can be maintained on the game itself, while specialty nights can prioritize their respective causes. It is important to recognize that the NHL remains dedicated to the underlying purpose of Pride nights and will continue to design and auction off jerseys for charitable causes.
For over a decade, the NHL has worked alongside You Can Play to advance the visibility and acceptance of the 2SLGBTQ+ community within hockey. This collaboration has resulted in substantial progress, making the NHL a leader among major sporting organizations in fostering inclusivity. It is therefore most disheartening and disappointing that the decision to eliminate themed warmup jerseys means that players who actively chose to wear Pride jerseys to show support will no longer have that opportunity. However, it is crucial to recognize that Pride nights themselves will continue, presenting an opportunity to enhance programming and further the mission of inclusion and belonging for the 2SLGBTQ+ community.
By preserving the tradition of wearing themed jerseys, the NHL can maintain its role as a leader in fostering inclusivity within the sports world, sending a powerful message that the hockey community stands united in support of all individuals, regardless of their sexual orientation or gender identity.
Last season, the issue surrounding players choosing not to participate in wearing themed jerseys gained significant attention. Ivan Provorov, then with the Philadelphia Flyers, cited religious beliefs as the reason for his decision, which sparked a broader discussion. Other players, including Eric and Marc Staal and James Reimer, also abstained from wearing the jerseys for similar reasons. Additionally, some Russian players and certain teams, such as the Minnesota Wild, New York Rangers, and Chicago Blackhawks, decided not to partake in Pride-themed jerseys due to varying personal and organizational factors.
While acknowledging the complexity of individual beliefs and perspectives, it is essential to strike a balance between respecting personal choices and preserving the symbolism and impact of themed jerseys. These jerseys serve as powerful visual statements of solidarity and support, creating a sense of belonging for the 2SLGBTQ+ community within the hockey world. By maintaining the tradition of wearing themed warmup jerseys, the NHL can continue to amplify its message of inclusivity and demonstrate its commitment to fostering a more diverse and accepting environment.
The decision to remove themed warmup jerseys in the NHL has sparked concerns among advocates for the 2SLGBTQ+ community, including You Can Play. While distraction may be a legitimate concern, it is crucial to recognize the significance and impact of these jerseys in promoting visibility, acceptance, and a true sense of belonging. By preserving the tradition of wearing themed jerseys, the NHL can maintain its role as a leader in fostering inclusivity within the sports world, sending a powerful message that the hockey community stands united in support of all individuals, regardless of their sexual orientation or gender identity.