NHL goalie and Christian James Reimer refuses to wear ‘Pride Night’ jersey
Luke Gentile
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San Jose Sharks goalie James Reimer is under fire after he refused to wear an LGBTQ-themed “Pride Night” jersey ahead of his team’s Saturday home game against the New York Islanders.
Reimer was not on the ice during the Sharks’ pregame warmup when the team wore the jerseys.
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The jerseys were meant as an effort to “continue a long-standing commitment of allyship with the LGBTQIA+ community,” according to a statement released by the Sharks organization.
“Sharks Sports and Entertainment is extremely proud to host our 2023 Sharks Pride Night. This week’s events, culminating with tonight’s game against the New York Islander, reinforce our organization’s values and dedication to an inclusive, welcoming, an safe environment for all guests in each of our venues.”
They were designed by a queer artist and displayed a Pride crest and patch reading “Love Wins.”
Reimer boycotted the warmup skate and refused to wear the jersey due to his Christian faith.
“For all 13 years of my NHL career, I have been a Christian,” Reimer said in a statement. “Not just in title, but in how I choose to live my life daily. I have personal faith in Jesus Christ for my sins and, In response, asks me to love everyone and follow him.”
He has no hate in his heart and strives to treat everyone with respect and kindness, Reimer said.
“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,” his statement read.
“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.”
Following Reimer’s refusal to wear the “Pride Night” jersey, he has been criticized by many in the hockey and LGBTQ communities.
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Chief among the critics is Pittsburgh Penguins President of Hockey Operations Brian Burke.
“I repeat that I am extremely disappointed,” Burke said. “I wish players would understand that the Pride sweaters are about inclusion and welcoming everybody. A player wearing pride colors or tape isn’t endorsing a set of values or enlisting in cause! He is saying you are welcome here. And you are, in every single NHL building.”