In a recent move, the National Hockey League (NHL) has lifted its ban on players displaying social causes on their equipment.
This policy change includes the use of rainbow-coloured Pride tape on their sticks, which was previously prohibited via a league-wide memo sent to all 32 teams prior to the 2023-24 regular season.
The ban was met with widespread criticism from players, fans, and numerous organizations.
Following consultation with the NHL Players’ Association and the NHL Player Inclusion Coalition, the NHL announced on Tuesday that players will now have the option to voluntarily showcase social causes with their stick tape throughout the season.
This decision came three days after Arizona Coyotes defenseman Travis Dermott became the first player to defy the ban with colourful tape wrapped around the shaft of his stick during his team’s home opener.
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The reversal of the ban has been welcomed by various organizations, including the You Can Play Project, which advocates for safety and inclusion in sports.
The organization called the NHL’s decision to reverse its ban “a win for us all”.
The You Can Play Project also emphasized the importance of actively welcoming communities into hockey to keep the sport strong now and in the future.
NHL Pride Night events, which were established to show support for LGBTQ+ fans and athletes, were met with opposition from some teams and players last season.
However, the NHL’s recent policy change is expected to promote greater inclusivity and acceptance in the league.