NHL issues statement supporting Ivan Provorov's decision to skip Pride night
Last night large portions of the hockey world were up in arms after Ivan Provorov's decision to not take part in his team's Pride Night celebration. The entire Philadelphia Flyer's team wore Pride inspired uniforms during warm ups to help promote the "Hockey is for Everyone" initiative.
Unlike his teammates, Provorov opted out of warm ups due to his religious beliefs. Fans were upset by this and there was an outcry for the NHL to do something about Provorov's decision. Today the NHL issued a statement in support of Provorov's choice.
Hockey is for Everyone is the umbrella initiative under which the League encourages Clubs to celebrate the diversity that exists in their respective markets, and to work to achieve more welcoming and inclusive environments for all fans. Clubs decide whom to celebrate, when and how- with League counsel and support. Players are free to decide which initiatives to support, and we continue to encourage their voices and perspectives on social and cultural issues.
The NHL's statement likely won't sit well with everyone, but it's a clear indication that the league is willing to support the player's freedom of speech and freedom of choice. I will admit I'm surprised the league took this stance and chose to support Provorov instead of giving into the masses.
Whether you agree or disagree with Provorov, he has the right to choose what he supports and nothing he has said is hateful or discriminatory, and until that point he's done nothing wrong.
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