Josh Marans’ Post

The NHL got it wrong. For as long as I can remember, NHL teams have worn alternate warm-up jerseys for theme nights: camo jerseys on Armed Forces Appreciation Night, pink jerseys on Hockey Fights Cancer Night, and colorful jerseys on Pride Night. After the game, the jerseys are auctioned off, raising thousands of dollars for the associated causes. Last year, several players chose not to wear their team's Pride Night warm-up jerseys. For some, it went against personal or religious beliefs. Others feared their families would face retribution or even violence in their home country. While I don't agree with players (or anyone, for that matter) who refuse to support diverse causes, I can't pretend to understand the complex geopolitical issues at play, especially in a league where 30% of the players are not North American. I can only assume their decision came from a place of misunderstanding or genuine safety concern—not one of hate or intolerance. Instead of allowing these players to opt out of wearing themed jerseys or warm-ups altogether, this year, the NHL banned all alternate jerseys completely. Uniforms and gear for games, warm-ups, and official team practices cannot be altered to reflect, support, or acknowledge theme nights. They even banned rainbow-colored stick tape. I understand the NHL doesn't want negative publicity each time a player refuses to wear a Pride jersey. But this decision brings far more negative publicity to the league. It hurts the league, the teams, the players, the fans, and the entire LGBTQIA+ community (not to mention the other groups who have benefited from theme nights at NHL games). This policy is backward. This policy lets the small majority win instead of celebrating, encouraging, and respecting the diversity of our country and the world. I will always love the NHL (especially my hometown, Washington Capitals), but this policy is an embarrassment to the game. #pride #lgbtqia #lgbt #lgbtqrights #lgbtqiacommunity #hockey #sports