The New Jersey Devils have ingeniously circumvented the National Hockey League’s prohibition on themed jerseys during warm-ups. Despite the league’s regulations, the Devils have declared their intention to sport specially designed LGBTQ+ Pride jerseys before the official warm-ups as part of their LGBTQ+ Pride night.
In a bold departure from the NHL’s new directives, the Devils have opted to exhibit their backing for the LGBTQ+ community by donning the pride jerseys during player arrivals, effectively sidestepping the league’s prohibition on wearing themed jerseys during warm-ups. This resolution underscores the team’s dedication to honouring diversity and inclusivity within the hockey community.
Previously, the NHL had integrated LGBTQ+ Pride nights into its seasonal theme nights, joining other events such as Black History, military appreciation, and Hockey Fights Cancer. On these designated nights, players would wear themed jerseys during warm-ups, with the jerseys later being auctioned off to support related charities.
However, a small number of players refused to wear the pride jerseys last year, citing personal beliefs. In response, some teams opted to entirely remove Pride jerseys, while others made the decision independent of the players. Consequently, the NHL Commissioner and the league’s Board of Governors opted to phase out themed jerseys by the end of the 2022-2023 season, deeming them a “distraction.”
Consequently, NHL players are now prohibited from wearing themed gear during warm-ups, with fines being imposed on those who contravene the regulations. Notably, no player has thus far been penalised for contravening the policy, including Travis Dermott, who flouted the ban by using rainbow pride tape on his stick before the league lifted its restriction on that specific item.
The Devils have also disclosed that the proceeds from the auction of their Pride jerseys will be donated to Hyacinth, New Jersey’s largest and first HIV/AIDs service provider. The jersey was crafted by a local artist, Kathryn Kennedy of Kearny, New Jersey, who expressed that the abstract style of the jersey symbolises the experience of “coming out” within the LGBTQ+ community.
Kennedy articulated her gratitude in being involved with the Devils’ Pride Night, underscoring the significance of these themed events in validating and embracing individuals within their respective communities. She aspires for the design of the jersey to contribute to fostering a sense of acceptance and appreciation for others.
The New Jersey Devils’ decision to don LGBTQ+ Pride jerseys in defiance of the NHL ban not only underscores their unwavering support for the LGBTQ+ community but also conveys a compelling message about the importance of inclusion and equality within professional sports. It is a daring approach that challenges norms and underscores the team’s pledge to stand in solidarity with the LGBTQ+ community.