LGBTQIA+ community upset with NHL's warmup jersey ban

LGBTQIA+ community upset with NHL’s warmup jersey ban

The NHL’s recent decision to prohibit players from wearing specialty jerseys during warmups has sparked frustration among those who have directly benefited from their involvement, including charities and artists representing marginalized communities.

Mio Linzie, a queer artist who has collaborated with NHL teams such as the Vegas Golden Knights and Los Angeles Kings on Pride jerseys, expressed disappointment, stating that the ban not only impacts the LGBTQ+ community but also other marginalized groups. Warmup jerseys have played a crucial role in community outreach, charity initiatives, and providing a platform for artists to express themselves within the NHL, and losing this opportunity has been disheartening for many.

The NHL’s announcement came after several players faced scrutiny for refusing to wear Pride Night sweaters in the previous season. NHL commissioner Gary Bettman clarified that while specialty nights would still be held, teams would no longer wear corresponding jerseys during warmups. He emphasized that teams can still create jerseys for auctions.

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The ban encompasses jerseys worn during various events such as Black History Month, Women’s History Month, Military Appreciation Night, Hockey Fights Cancer, as well as localized celebrations like San Jose’s Hispanic Heritage Night. These player-worn jerseys, often designed by artists from marginalized communities, would be auctioned off after games, generating significant funds for local and national charities.

Charities like Adolescent Counseling Services, which supports LGBTQ+ teens and families, raised funds through the auction of San Jose Sharks Pride jerseys. Dr. Philippe Rey, the organization’s executive director, expressed disappointment, highlighting the positive impact that gestures of support can have on LGBTQ+ youth, who face challenges such as bullying, hate crimes, and a heightened risk of suicide.

The American Cancer Society, which benefited from the sale of player-worn “Hockey Fights Cancer” jerseys, emphasized that jersey sales are just one aspect of their broader partnership with the NHL and NHLPA in their fight against cancer.

LGBTQIA+ community upset with NHL’s warmup jersey ban

During the past season, all 32 teams held Pride or Hockey Is for Everyone nights. However, some players chose not to participate in warmups when their teams wore Pride jerseys, citing religious beliefs. The decision by players led to reversals in plans by teams like the Minnesota Wild and New York Rangers.

NHLPA executive director Marty Walsh acknowledged that most NHL players are supportive of the LGBTQ+ community, but there were individuals who declined to wear the jerseys due to political or religious reasons.

Bettman explained that the ban on players wearing specialty jerseys aims to eliminate distractions caused by boycotts during Pride Nights, ensuring that the focus remains on the game and the causes being supported.

Some artists who contributed to the jersey designs expressed disagreement with Bettman’s explanation. They argued that removing the jerseys altogether sends a message that not everyone is welcome on the ice, contrary to the NHL’s claims.

The artists questioned why the NHL didn’t allow teams to address the issue internally instead of implementing a blanket ban. They also emphasized that holding special tribute nights without players wearing the jerseys misses the intended purpose of increasing visibility and raising funds for charities.

Despite the ban, artists like Linzie expressed hope that the jerseys could still be created and made more accessible. However, the absence of players wearing the jerseys during games and in footage diminishes their significance for communities.

Individuals affected by the policy change, such as Anaheim Ducks arena organist Lindsay Imber, who is transgender, are now focused on finding alternative ways to support the impacted communities and charities. Imber highlighted the need for increased efforts to honor diverse communities and make everyone feel welcome.

Although saddened by the loss of the moment of euphoria experienced when players wore the jerseys, artists and collaborators are determined to be creative and find ways to invest in communities, embracing their role in supporting diversity.

LGBTQIA+ community upset with NHL’s warmup jersey ban

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