Gary Bettman Lauds NHL Pride Nights, Reality Reveals Inconsistent Support
The recent surge in popularity of the show “Heated Rivalry,” which showcases a romance between two male hockey players, has sparked discussions about the NHL’s commitment to the LGBTQ+ community. NHL Commissioner Gary Bettman praised the series, acknowledging its role in increasing interest in the sport.
Criticism Over NHL’s LGBTQ+ Support
Despite Bettman’s positive remarks, many have criticized the NHL for its inconsistent support of LGBTQ+ initiatives. One of the stars of “Heated Rivalry,” François Arnaud, has emphasized that there is room for improvement. The NHL’s decision in 2023 to prohibit promotional warmup jerseys and multi-colored Pride tape elicited significant backlash, although the latter decision was later reversed.
Pride Nights: A Divided Landscape
Bettman asserted that “every team does a Pride Night,” yet this claim does not hold up under scrutiny. Research from The Athletic indicates that four out of the 32 NHL teams—namely the Boston Bruins, Carolina Hurricanes, Los Angeles Kings, and Utah Mammoth—have opted out of traditional Pride Night events this season. The league clarified that Bettman’s comments referred to the previous season and did not provide reasons for the current shift.
The NHL’s Commitment to LGBTQ+ Inclusion
- Kim Davis, the NHL’s Vice President for Social Impact, stated that the league prioritizes creating an inclusive environment for LGBTQ+ individuals.
- The NHL does not require teams to host specific themed events; rather, support is offered through a dedicated group for planning.
- Teams generally manage their events through marketing and sponsorship, while hockey operations contribute to planning efforts.
Matt Kenny, a former player and LGBTQ+ advocate, highlighted the significance of Pride Nights in fostering visibility and recognition for the LGBTQ+ community. He noted that these events not only celebrate identity but also ensure safe spaces for players and fans alike.
Shifts in Team Initiatives
The NHL’s approach to Pride Nights varies by team, with some transitioning to broader initiatives like “Hockey Is For Everyone Night.” For instance, the Carolina Hurricanes and Boston Bruins have both adopted this alternative theme, which aims to celebrate diversity across multiple marginalized groups.
The Bruins, during their recent initiatives, facilitated an online auction for rainbow-taped hockey sticks, with proceeds aiding Boston Pride Hockey. Meanwhile, the Kings are focusing on youth hockey programs, including inclusive language training for coaches and community events designed to foster connection within the LGBTQ+ community.
Conclusion
The evolution of the NHL’s support for LGBTQ+ initiatives raises crucial questions about inclusivity within the sport. As teams reassess their promotional strategies, advocacy for a more consistent embrace of Pride Nights remains vital for creating safe and welcoming environments in hockey.
