National Coach From America’s ‘Anti-LGBTQ’ State Clears Her Stance on Pride Night

In a time when conversations around inclusivity are more critical than ever, Tennessee’s stance on LGBTQ+ equality has sparked significant debate. The state ranks 46th in the nation for LGBTQ inclusion according to a recent Out Leadership report. The organization, which evaluates states based on categories like legal protections, work environment, and youth support, pointed to the increasing wave of anti-LGBTQ legislation as a primary factor in the state’s low ranking.

When the Vanderbilt women’s basketball team stormed past Arkansas with a commanding 101-60 victory, it wasn’t just another game for them. It was their annual LGBTQ+ Pride Night, a celebration of inclusion and unity. Since its inception in 2020, Pride Night has become a cherished tradition for the Commodores, and under coach Shea Ralph’s leadership, it continues to thrive.

This year, the players and the coaches wore t-shirts that said “All are welcome here,” a simple yet powerful statement of their commitment to inclusivity, before their warmup. With openly gay assistant coach Kevin DeMille as part of the staff, the team showcases the spirit of diversity whenever it gets the chance to do so. Other Vanderbilt programs like lacrosse and soccer teams have also embraced Pride Night.

Speaking in the pre-game conference, coach Shea Ralph delivered a powerful message on the significance of hosting Pride Night. She said, “The important thing for us is, and it says it on our shirts, all are welcome here,” she began, her words underscoring the team’s mission. Ralph acknowledged that differing views and beliefs are inevitable, but emphasized that, at the core, everyone shares a common humanity.

“As human beings, I think we can all have our different views and different philosophies and different political thoughts, and that’s all well and good, but we’re all still human beings, and to me, it’s the same heart everywhere.” Her message resonated throughout the night, turning the game into a platform for unity and acceptance.

She elaborated further, explaining that respect and understanding can bridge divides, even when agreement feels out of reach. “So if you can respect that about another person, we’re not going to agree on anything or everything. Maybe we won’t agree on anything, but I can respect you as another human being that’s trying to do your best on this earth, that that you know you have what you have, you love what you love,” Coach Shea said.

Her perspective extends beyond LGBTQ+ Pride Night to other cultural celebrations, emphasizing that the team’s values remain steadfast. “To me, that’s what that means, whether it’s pride night or black history or on down the line, the things that we honor here, it’s just the same heart everywhere.”

With Pride Night shining a spotlight on the team’s values off the court, it’s worth taking a closer look at how Shea Ralph’s team has performed on the court this season.

Shea Ralph’s Commodores are having a decent season

The Commodores followed up their first signature win over Tennessee with a thumping win over Arkansas, thanks to a team-high score of 24 by Mikayla Blakes. This has now taken their overall record to 16-4 this season and SEC record to 3-3. With momentum on their side, all eyes are on Coach Shea Ralph to guide the team back to the NCAA Tournament, building on last season’s success.

The Vanderbilt Commodores travel to the Coleman Coliseum on the 26th of January to face the Alabama Crimson Tide. With a 4-2 SEC record, the Crimson Tide will head into the game as favorites. ESPN predicts a 56.2% chance of Alabama winning the game. But with the form Shea Ralph’s squad has now, it would be foolish to count them out.

With Pride Night highlighting the Commodores’ unwavering commitment to inclusion coupled with their recent strong performances on the court, Coach Ralph’s team is proving they can inspire us both on and off the court. Stay tuned for more updates about the Commodores!