Associated Press8:44 p.m. ET2 Minute Read
CHICAGO — The Chicago Blackhawks will not wear Pride pre-match jerseys ahead of Sunday’s Pride Night game against Vancouver amid safety concerns related to a Russian law expanding restrictions on activities seen as promoting LGBTQ rights in the country .
The decision was made by the NHL organization after discussions with security officials inside and outside the franchise, according to a person familiar with the situation, who spoke to AP on condition of anonymity Wednesday because of the sensitivity of the move.
The Blackhawks have previously worn Pride pre-match jerseys and have donned special pre-match jerseys at a few other themed nights this season. According to the person who spoke to AP, there were ongoing discussions with the players about a Pride jersey, but the organization made the decision to hold Pride Night without the jerseys this year.
Russian President Vladimir Putin signed law in December significantly expanding restrictions on activities seen as promoting LGBTQ rights in the country. Chicago defender Nikita Zaitsev hails from Moscow and there are other players with families in Russia or other ties to the country.
The Blackhawks’ decision comes after San Jose Sharks goaltender James Reimer and Philadelphia Flyers defenseman Ivan Provorov refused to participate in warm-ups while wearing Pride jerseys. The New York Rangers chose not to wear Pride jerseys or use Pride tape as part of their January night, despite previously promoting that plan.
While Chicago will be without Pride pre-match shirts this year, the team has a variety of activities planned in connection with Sunday’s game. DJs from the LGBTQ community will be DJing before the game and during intermission, and the Chicago Gay Men’s Chorus will also perform. There are also plans to highlight a few regional businesses with ties to the LGBTQ community.