NHL Reverses Course, Permits ‘Pride’ Tape On Hockey Sticks
The National Hockey League quickly reversed course and caved to the powers of political correctness. Its controversial ban on using so-called “pride” tape is now history.
Every knee shall bow.
The Canadian-based league initially prohibited players from donning the rainbow-colored addition on their sticks. However, criticism quickly poured in from the left along with some key players, and the decision was rescinded.
The league explained in a statement, “After consultation with the NHL Players Association and the NHL Player Inclusion Coalition, players will now have the option to voluntarily represent social causes with their stick tape throughout the season.”
The NHL in May initiated the “Player Inclusion Coalition” to promote LGBT causes within the sport. This followed some players last season refusing to wear “pride jerseys” during warmups for religious or other reasons.
The league then stopped the practice of wearing the special gear that offended some of its players.
Then a one-player revolt surfaced on Saturday. Arizona Coyotes defenseman Travis Dermott plays on a league minimum one-year contract.
But last weekend against the Anaheim Ducks, he took to the ice with the rainbow tape adorning his hockey stick. Many on the left erupted in spontaneous celebration over the “courageous” display by the player in defiance of the league.
A league that, for the record, immediately folded under the slightest application of pressure.
In June, NHL Commissioner Gary Bettman told Sportsnet after a league-wide meeting that the LGBT-themed jerseys would not be worn on the ice. He explained that they are now “a distraction from really the essence of what the purpose of these nights are.”
They were worn in conjunction with “Pride” Night events.
Just before the new season commenced, the NHL sent a memo to all clubs outlining its new policy. There would be no more specialty jerseys and the rainbow-colored tape would not be permitted on sticks during warmups or games.
The makers of “pride” tape released a statement expressing joy that the NHL once again is a “safe, inclusive and welcoming space for all.” Except, of course, those who do not toe the line with the latest left-wing social issue.
