NHL team won't wear Pride jerseys over safety concerns

A team in the NHL has made the decision to not wear a Pride jersey during their warm-ups, citing concerns over the security for Russian players.

The move comes after Russia recently passed an anti-LGBTQIA+ law making it illegal for nationals to promote "gay propaganda".

The Chicago Blackhawks will not wear a Pride-themed warm-up jersey for Pride Night this weekend.

It's understood the team has worn rainbow Pride shirts a number of times in the past, but officials have decided against the move this year following consultations with security.

Reports suggest the team holds fears for the several Russian players on the roster following the recent passing of a law in their home country.

It’s homophobia. Just say homophobia.

The Chicago Blackhawks will not wear Pride jerseys during their Pride Night warmups on Sunday due to “safety concerns” for their Russian players

Hockey is for everyone! 🙃 pic.twitter.com/uVUO4Rj2fd

— The GIST Canada (@thegistca) March 22, 2023

In December, president Vladimir Putin's signed off on a new legislation which makes it illegal for any Russian to promote gay relationships as "normal."

Blackhawks coach Luke Richardson called it “an unfortunate situation.”

“I don’t think we can control the world issues, so that takes it out of our hands,” Richardson said.

“We’re just making decisions as best we can as an organization and for everybody.”

The NHL is yet to release a statement on the matter.

Chicago's move comes just a matter of days after San Jose Sharks goalie James Reimer made headlines for refusing to participate in his team's Pride event.

“I have a personal faith in Jesus Christ who died on the cross for my sins and, in response, asks me to love everyone and follow him," Reimer said.

"I have no hate in my heart for anyone, and I have always strived to treat everyone that I encounter with respect and kindness.

"In this specific instance, I am choosing not to endorse something that is counter to my personal convictions which are based on the Bible, the highest authority in my life. I strongly believe that every person has value and worth, and the LGBTQIA+ community, like all others, should be welcomed in all aspects of the game of hockey."