In a groundbreaking act of defiance, Canadian National Hockey League (NHL) player, Travis Dermott, has become the first to court controversy by sporting Pride Tape in a match since its prohibition by the league. On Saturday night, the Arizona Coyote defenseman undertook this symbolic gesture while playing against the Anaheim Ducks.
This move unfolds under two weeks from the time when the NHL elaborated on its regulations for this year’s themed celebrations, which included the controversial stride of banning the use of rainbow-coloured hockey stick tape.
Kristopher Wells, a revered public figure known for his studies on public understanding of sexual and gender minority youth, who also happens to be a co-founder of Pride Tape, has lauded Dermott for his bold stance. Not one to shy away from openly challenging the established rules, Dermott’s decision echoes historic significance, according to Wells.
“This is a moment in history we will recall, asserting that the LGBTQ+ community has steadfast allies in the realm of hockey who will stand by them, speak up for them and emphatically show that they have a place in the hockey community,” Wells stated.
Dermott’s association with the LGBTQ2S+ community as a long-time ally, and Pride Tape advocate was not a secret, according to Wells. “Not long after the prohibition ruling, Dermott sought us out to secure his personal tape,” Wells recounts. “In challenging times like these, he is not hesitant to voice his support for a cause he firmly believes in, proving his dedication as an ally.”
Travis Dermott caught the spotlight as the pioneering NHL player to employ the Pride Tape post the league’s ban during a Saturday afternoon game opposing the Anaheim Ducks.
Controversies had earlier been sparked when the NHL instituted a ban on teams wearing thematic jerseys during warm-ups in June. This occurred following a backlash against the decision made by some of the players to exclude themselves from Pride celebrations.
According to Wells, while Dermott was the first to openly display the Pride Tape, other players have already conveyed their intentions to use the outlawed tape or develop innovative means to show their support for Pride. Their collective voices send a resounding message to the NHL that it is about much more than just tape – it’s a statement about a potent human rights movement that many support. He urged the NHL to rethink its decision and acknowledge its misstep.
As it stood on Sunday, the NHL had not declared if Dermott would face any repercussions for his conduct.
The pioneering team that first dressed in the Edmonton-based Pride Tape was the Edmonton Oilers. Proceeds from the sales of the Pride Tape are allocated to outreach and educational programs for LGBTQ2S+ youth.
