The Chicago Blackhawks won’t put on Pride-themed warmup jerseys for Pride Night on Sunday, based on a report … citing safety considerations for his or her Russian gamers after the nation handed an anti-LGBTQ regulation making it unlawful to advertise “homosexual propaganda” in Russia.
According to the Associated Press, the Blackhawks — who’ve worn Pride warmup jerseys earlier than — in the end determined in opposition to sporting the jerseys this season for the April 12 celebration after consulting with safety officers … who took under consideration president Vladimir Putin‘s newly-expanded regulation which makes it unlawful for anybody to advertise homosexual relationships as “regular.”
Of course, the Blackhawks name Chicago residence … however the crew has a number of Russian gamers on the roster, together with defenseman Nikita Zaitsev, who’s a Moscow native. There are additionally gamers on the crew with relations dwelling in Russia.
Chicago’s resolution comes simply days after San Jose Sharks goalie James Reimer refused to take part in his crew’s Pride occasion, saying his Christian beliefs will not enable him to put on a Pride-themed jersey.
“I’ve a private religion in Jesus Christ who died on the cross for my sins and, in response, asks me to like everybody and comply with him,” Reimer mentioned. “I’ve no hate in my coronary heart for anybody, and I’ve all the time strived to deal with everybody that I encounter with respect and kindness.
“In this particular occasion, I’m selecting to not endorse one thing that’s counter to my private convictions that are primarily based on the Bible, the very best authority in my life. I strongly imagine that each particular person has worth and value, and the LGBTQIA+ group, like all others, ought to be welcomed in all features of the sport of hockey.”
As for the Blackhawks, they’ve but to formally announce the choice.