Current Quebec Solidaire co-spokeswoman Manon Massé is unfazed by the National Hockey League’s recent ban on jerseys that promote pride and inclusion.
A few weeks ago, the circle decided to retire the themed rainbow colored bibs intended to support the LGBTQIA+ cause. However, the equestrian member of Sainte-Marie-Saint-Jacques challenged him on social networks on Tuesday afternoon, as did the Habs.
Also read: Agent reacts violently to NHL decision
“I am asking the NHL to change their decision and the Montreal Canadiens to continue this practice. If players don’t want to wear it, let them warm up the bench because excluding LGBTQIA+ people from sport means putting them on the bench of exclusion,” Ms. Massé wrote on her Twitter account.
In June, NHL Commissioner Gary Bettman confirmed the end of the initiative after several controversies last season.
“I have suggested to clubs that it would be appropriate not to change their shirts during warm-up as it becomes a distraction,” he said. All of our clubs hold celebrations in one way or another to honor different groups or causes, and we want them to continue to receive the attention they deserve without causing distraction.”
In the 2022–23 season, league teams canceled plans to wear Pride jerseys at the last minute during a warm-up session, while players refused to wear them for religious reasons, among others. In Montreal, forward Denis Gurianov skipped the audition on April 6 at the Bell Center when the Canadiens held their special inclusion night.