The month will feature original storytelling shared on NHL.com/Pride, NHL Network, and via the NHL and NHLPA's social channels. Furthering inclusiveness is a year-round mission for the NHL and we are excited to highlight some of our efforts during this Pride Month." "We are immensely proud of the work that members of our NHL and extended hockey families do to make all feel welcome in the world's greatest game. "At parades and events across North America celebrating Pride, the NHL and our partners will be participating to send a message that is clear and unequivocal - hockey is for everyone," said NHL Commissioner Gary Bettman. Anyone can play the game we all love and cherish so much." "For me, using Pride Tape is just a small gesture that I hope will go a long way. "I was raised by my mom to treat people the way you want to be treated and that means being inclusive and accepting people for who they are, because I want to be accepted, too," said Kurtis Gabriel, New Jersey Devils forward. Video: The Power of Pride Tape: Devils' Kurtis Gabriel
The partnership was You Can Play's first with a North American professional sports league. Founded in 2012 by Patrick Burke, NHL Senior Director of Player Safety, You Can Play has since generated support from more than 100 professional hockey players who have voiced their support for gay teammates. Since 2013 the NHL and NHLPA have been partners with the You Can Play Project, an advocacy organization fighting homophobia in sports, reaffirming that the official policy is one of inclusion on the ice, in the locker rooms, and in the stands.
This was the original vision of You Can Play, and our partnership with the NHL and NHLPA has made that something that LGBTQ athletes and allies alike can feel good about," said Brian Kitts, You Can Play co-founder and president. "There's no better way to make young athletes and fans feel safe and welcome than to have their sports idols and the teams they look up to showing this kind of recognition and support.