NHL prohibits ‘Pride Tape’ on ice.
OAN’s Stephanie Stahl
4:19 PM – Tuesday, October 10, 2023
The NHL has clarified in an updated memo to players what is permissible when it comes to celebrating themes this season, which included a ban on the use of rainbow-colored stick tape for LGBTQ+ Pride nights.
In the initial memo, the league informed all 32 teams that they cannot wear any “themed” jerseys.
In response to concern from some of the teams, the NHL sent out updated guidelines last week, emphasizing that player uniforms and equipment worn during games, in warm-ups, and in official team practices on the ice cannot align with specific theme nights, such as Pride, Hockey Fights Cancer, or even military appreciation events.
According to the memo, athletes are only permitted to partake in themed celebrations while they are “off the ice.”
The ban on the use of pride tape also comes just a few months after The NHL decided in June to ban themed jerseys for warmups, due to a handful of players who opted out of those warm-ups during Pride night last season.
While announcing the jersey ban, NHL Commissioner Gary Bettman claimed that it had become too much of a “distraction.”
“And taking away from the fact that all of our clubs host nights in honor of various groups or causes, and we’d rather they continue to get the appropriate attention they deserve and not be a distraction,” Bettman asserted.
Philadelphia’s Ivan Provorov was the first player who opted out of warm-ups when the Flyers team wore rainbow-colored jerseys before their Pride night game in January, citing his Russian Orthodox religion.
Six other players later followed suit for a variety of reasons.
In a statement, the makers of Pride Tape expressed that they were “extremely disappointed” by the NHL’s latest decision to ban the use of its rainbow-colored tape.
“Despite this setback, we are encouraged for what lies ahead based on our recent conversations from every corner of the sport,” they said.
Maple Leafs defenseman Morgan Rielly told reporters in Toronto, Canada, that he wished players had the right and freedom to do more and be more involved.
“I’m going to continue to be involved in the community and offer support to those communities and those groups that want that [and] need that,” Rielly maintained.
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The NHL’s decision to ban the use of rainbow-colored stick tape for LGBTQ+ Pride nights has caused controversy and disappointment among players and fans alike. In an updated memo to players, the league clarified its stance on themed celebrations, stating that player uniforms and equipment worn during games, warm-ups, and official team practices cannot align with specific theme nights, including Pride, Hockey Fights Cancer, and military appreciation events.
Initially, the league informed all 32 teams of the ban on “themed” jerseys. However, due to concerns raised by some teams, the NHL sent out updated guidelines emphasizing that themed celebrations can only take place “off the ice.” This restriction has been met with criticism, as it restricts players from openly supporting and celebrating important causes and communities during games and official team activities.
The ban on rainbow-colored stick tape for Pride nights comes after a few players opted out of wearing themed jerseys for warm-ups during Pride night last season. NHL Commissioner Gary Bettman justified the ban by stating that it had become a ”distraction.” However, this decision has been met with disappointment, as it undermines the significance of these events and the visibility they provide for marginalized communities.
The makers of Pride Tape expressed their disappointment with the NHL’s decision, stating that they remain hopeful for the future based on recent conversations within the sport. The ban has also sparked discussions among players, with Maple Leafs defenseman Morgan Rielly expressing his desire for players to have the freedom to do more and be more involved in supporting communities and groups.
The NHL’s decision raises questions about the league’s commitment to inclusivity and equality. While it claims to honor various groups and causes, the ban on themed celebrations during games and official team activities limits the visibility and impact of these initiatives.
In a time when inclusivity and diversity are being championed across various industries, the NHL’s ban on themed jerseys and rainbow-colored stick tape sends a contradictory message. It is crucial for sports leagues to create an environment where players can openly support causes they feel passionate about and contribute to meaningful change.
As fans, we should continue to support and advocate for a more inclusive and accepting sports culture. It is through visibility, celebration, and support that we can foster a more accepting and diverse community both on and off the ice.
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