Chicago Blackhawks REFUSE to take part in Pride Night festivities citing Russian player’s safety concerns, NHL Twitter reacts

Chicago Blackhawks join the faction of NHL teams who refused to don pride night jerseys celebrating the event of inclusion in the sport.


<strong>Chicago Blackhawks REFUSE to take part in Pride Night festivities citing Russian player’s safety concerns, NHL Twitter reacts</strong>

Chicago Blackhawks [Image Credit: Twitter]

Chicago Blackhawks become the newest addition to the NHL team factions who have refused to celebrate Pride Night festivities. Although previous teams and players have mostly cited personal and religious issues for their rejection, Blackhawks talk about player safety reasons to back up their actions.

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The team has cited three Russian players, Nikita Zaitsev, Philipp Kurashev, and Anton Khudobin, who may have to encounter issues with their country’s politics and beliefs. According to the Blackhawks organization and security officials, it’s best to add on some events, while opting out to wear pride-themed jerseys. 

It’s been reported by many sources that this decision did not come from the players themselves but from their organization. The Blackhawks become the newest team to reject the pride night notion along with NY Rangers, NY Islanders, and Minnesota Wild.

Related: Luke Prokop “disappointed” with NHL action following James Reimer pride jersey controversy

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Chicago Blackhawks decides to celebrate Pride Night without themed-jersey

Chicago Blackhawks [Image Credit: Chicago Sun Times]
Chicago Blackhawks [Image Credit: Chicago Sun Times]

The whole pride night controversy started in January with Philadelphia Flyers Ivan Provorov rejecting to participate in the team’s pride night warmups. His rejection was followed by heavy criticisms both from players, coaches, and fans in and outside of the hockey world.

Although the internet fire took a while to quiet down, San Jose Sharks goalie James Reimer‘s recent decision has sparked internet controversy once again. Following his decision in last Saturday’s warmup, the internet has been talking about the rejection of inclusion in the sport.

The most disappointed player would be the Nashville Predators prospect, Luke Prokop. He was the first NHL player to come out as gay. Since he’s coming out, he’s been involved actively in spreading awareness and for the inclusion of the LGBTQ community in the sphere of sports. 

Prokop stated that this rejection of pride night has taken the NHL a back-step in forward progress, “Pride nights and Pride jerseys play an important role in promoting and respecting inclusion for the LGBTQIA+ community…” 

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“…and it’s disheartening to see some teams no longer wearing them or embracing their significance, while the focus of others has become about the players who aren’t participating rather than the meaning of the night itself”.

The Blackhawks have previously celebrated pride nights, but this year they’ll do so without wearing their themed jerseys. According to Sportsnet, Russian president Vladimir Putin signed a law in December marking restrictions on activities seeing the promotion of LGBTQ rights in the country. 

To make up for their actions, the team has decided to hold activities and games for the pride night celebration. The Blackhawks even stated that they’ll be welcoming DJs from the LGBTQ community to play before and during a game intermission. 

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