For those of us in the LGBTQ+ community, finding a light at the end of the tunnel can seem like the farthest thing from reality, especially with the current President of the United States and his administration's feelings towards our rights as human beings. It seems like everyday articles are coming forth with yet another reason as to why America seems to be taking a step backward from being a country that was finally moving forward. Luckily, there are some organizations that can give us hope.
For the entire month of February, the National Hockey League (NHL) is hosting Hockey is for Everyone Month. Throughout the month, NHL teams are raising awareness and funds to support inclusion in the sport. It is not just for fans but for their athletes and coaches as well.
Although all teams are supporting the LGBTQ+ community, I wanted to give a special 'hats off' to my favorite hockey team, the New Jersey Devils, and the work they are doing to support LGBTQ+ individuals in their community during this month.
On Monday, February 27th, the New Jersey Devils hockey team is hosting a Pride Night. The National Hockey League team will not only be playing the Montreal Canadians, but also the Devils will be hoping to raise $10,000 to support local LGBTQ+ foundations and partners of the team.
To start off the evening, tickets are for purchase to attend a speaker panel including Sharronda Wheeler, President of Newark Gay Pride, and David Farber, Brand Ambassador for You Can Play. Both the Newark Gay Pride and You Can Play organizations will be benefiting from funds being raised by the New Jersey Devils fans and community members.
Newark Gay Pride was founded 11 years ago, beginning with a smaller event and now they provide the Newark, New Jersey area with multiple opportunities including recreational activities, educational programming, and an ever-growing LGBTQ+ pride week. They also focus on youth and adult programming, along with city wide safety initiatives. The New Jersey Devils store, The Devil's Den, is selling a special rainbow New Jersey Devil t-shirt for this event and some of the proceeds will go towards Newark Gay Pride. You can purchase a shirt here .
To continue their fundraising, a 50/50 raffle will be offered in support of the Essex County LGBTQ+ R.A.I.N foundation. This foundation offers housing series for LGBT youth in crisis who are leading to homelessness and provides different support services including financial and educational services.
The New Jersey Devils team will also be auctioning off players sticks who have been wrapped in rainbow Pride Tape to add to the cause.
Overall, I wanted to give three cheers to the National Hockey League. Thank you for being advocates and supporters of those of us in our community. I loved hockey from the beginning, but now I love it even more.
