Oilers Tape Up To Show Support

Every now and then an unexpected group of people will stand up for LGBTQ inclusion and equality in such a way that gives me hope in this world again. This time it's the Edmonton Oilers. 

The Oilers have become the first NHL team to openly show support for the LGBTQ community, specifically LGBTQ youth. They recently took part in the Institute for Sexual Minority Studies and Services at the University of Alberta's Pride Tape initiative. According to the kickstarter page for Pride Tape,

"Pride Tape is a badge of support from the teammates, coaches, parents and pros to young LGBTQ players. It shows every player that they belong on the ice. That we’re all on the same team. And we need your help to make it a reality.

When Pride Tape is up and running, proceeds will support LGBTQ youth outreach initiatives, such as You Can Play and the Institute for Sexual Minority Studies and Services. That means every roll of tape will make an impact on and off the ice."

On Sunday, during their annual Skills Competition, the Oilers took to the ice with their sticks wrapped with the rainbow Pride Tape. They furthered their support for the Pride Tape initiative by donating $8,000 to become a founding partner. That donation alone will produce 10,000 rolls of tape for other hockey teams. The initiative hopes to expand to other sports as well. 

According to Oiler's defenseman, Andrew Ference, everyone on the team is "proud to play for a team and city that supports diversity and human rights." 

Frankly, I think this idea is genius. Too many youths in the LGBTQ community think they have to choose between giving up sports or hiding who they are in order to play. This initiative is a simple and subtle way for teams to show their support and let LGBTQ youth know it's completely ok to be themselves and still play sports. I'm not a huge hockey fan, but my NHL team has always been the Anaheim Ducks. However, after this awesome display I may have to rethink that decision.