October 10, 2023 — Athlete Ally responded today to news that the National Hockey League (NHL) has banned on-ice player uniforms and gear from reflecting themed celebrations, including Pride, Hockey Fights Cancer or military appreciation celebrations.
“Athlete Ally is dismayed to hear that the NHL has banned visible on-ice support for theme celebrations, including Pride, cancer awareness and military appreciation,” said Hudson Taylor, Founder and Executive Director of Athlete Ally. “Teams have the power to incorporate their values into how they show up for the communities that love and support them, and players have the power to shine a light on causes and communities that are otherwise invisible or minimized. Pride tape and Pride games are opportunities for hockey teams to proactively and visibly show up for their LGBTQI+ fans.”