The Shocking Reason Teams are Scrapping Pride Jerseys Has Been Revealed
NHL Teams have been under fire after scrapping their pride nights. The shocking reason for these decisions have been revealed.
Pride Jerseys Canned to Protect Russian Players
Per The Athletic�s Michael Russo and Joe Smith, the reason NHL teams are scrapping pride jerseys is to protect Russian players.
It appears that Russian players who participate will receive arrest warrants in their home country, which would be detrimental to their lives after the NHL.
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In an article from TheAthletic's Michael Russo & Joe Smith, they cite that multiple teams with high-profile Russian players are scrapping their pride-themed night jerseys after Russia updated their anti-gay laws in December.
«It is illegal to spread �propaganda' about �nontraditional sexual relations' in all media, including social, advertising and movies.»
Ben Noble, associate professor of Russian politics at University College London, says that Russian players are «absolutely» at risk should they wear the pride-themed warmup jerseys.
«These are legitimate fears,» Noble said. «�If you put on a Pride jersey, then there is uncertainty regarding how this would be interpreted by law enforcement in Russia � and that's a risk. The authorities have the power to enforce this and other legislation selectively. It's up to them to decide whom they go after.»
This makes sense considering the teams that have cancelled their jersey nights.
Minnesota's franchise player is Russian superstar Kirill Kaprizov, the New York Islanders are backed in net by Ilya Samsonov, and the Rangers have a cast featuring Artemi Panarin, Igor Shesterkin, and Vladimir Tarasenko.
This type of clarity is interesting, but also shocking. It is sad to see a government get in the way of a good cause.
Previously on HockeyPatrol
POLL |
10 MARS | 381 ANSWERS The Shocking Reason Teams are Scrapping Pride Jerseys Has Been Revealed Do you think the NHL should scrap pride jerseys entirely? |
Yea | 309 | 81.1 % |
No | 72 | 18.9 % |
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