NHL and MLB Spark Controversy With Consecutive Provocative Pride Month Decisions Following Texas Rangers’ Row

Pride Month is well underway and teams across the MLB are celebrating it in a variety of ways. However, the Texas Rangers are the only franchise that does not have a Pride Day, which has started considerable debate. It is against this backdrop that the NHL and the MLB have made controversial Pride Month decisions in tandem.

29 MLB teams celebrate Pride Month with a variety of activities, themes, and accessories to support the LGBTQ community. But the MLB and NHL have advised teams to curtail certain activities in order to avoid causing distraction.

The NHL and MLB make controversial Pride Month decisions after the Texas Rangers’ stand

Recent decisions regarding Pride Month have created substantial controversy. The Rangers’ decision to not have a Pride Day, despite every other MLB team having one caused some debate. But most recently, the NHL joined the MLB in cutting back on certain Pride festivities. NHL Commissioner Gary Bettman has advised teams against wearing specialty-themed jerseys during warm-up, including Pride-based jerseys. This comes days after the MLB decided against putting Pride logos on players’ uniforms. Furthermore, both MLB and NHL players’ personal beliefs go against them wearing Pride logos. 

According to WSILTV.com, NHL Commissioner Bettman said, “I’ve suggested that it would be appropriate for clubs not to change their jerseys in warmups because it’s become a distraction and taking away from the fact that all of our clubs in some form or another host nights in honor of various groups or causes, and we’d rather them continue to get the appropriate attention that they deserve and not be a distraction”.

Read More: Days After Controversial Pride Night Decision, Texas Rangers’ Unforgettable Celebration Takes Center Stage

He further assured that the planned events such as Pride Night, Hockey Fights Cancer, and others would continue. The only difference is that they would not wear different warm-up jerseys. 

MLB Commissioner Rob Manfred explained his decision earlier this month

Less than two weeks ago, on June 15th, MLB Commissioner Rob Manfred announced that he advised teams against putting the Pride logo on hats and uniforms. He explained that it was a move to protect players by not making them uncomfortable because of their personal views and beliefs. But MLB has left the promotional nights and events up to the individual clubs based on local markets. This comes at a time when the debate surrounding Pride activities and events is raging among fans and experts.

Watch This Story: Backlash Against NHL Team For Refusing to Wear Pride Jerseys Before Game

What do you think of the NHL and MLB cutting back on these Pride activities as the Texas Rangers continue their stance on it? Please share your views on the topic in the comments below!