Athlete Ally Executive Director Hudson Taylor responded to the NHL’s decision to not suspend Ryan Getzlaf following his homophobic slur.
Ryan Getzlaf’s homophobic slur has no place in sports or in society. His words will have lasting consequences that extend beyond the ice, and pose a threat to making sports inclusive and accessible to the LGBT community. The NHL’s decision not to suspend Getzlaf sets a dangerous precedent, and is a signal to players and fans that playoff hockey is more important than punishing homophobic behavior. We expected more from the NHL.