Oilers support LGBTQ players with Pride Tape

The Edmonton Oilers are the first NHL team to use Pride Tape to support hockey players of all sexualities and genders

The NHL has recently taken an active role in promoting equality among all athletes and fans. The Oilers recently raised the bar by becoming the first NHL team to use Pride Tape. Pride Tape is a rainbow colored stick tape that promotes equality.

From Pride Tape’s Kickstarter:

"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."

LGBTQ stands for lesbian, gay, bisexual, transexual, and queer. The Oilers had a lot of fun supporting the cause. Defenseman Andrew Ference offered a player’s perspective on the subject.

"“People should feel free to be who they are,” said Ference, via Vancitybuzz.com. “If it’s not hurting anybody, then what’s wrong with it, right? It’s just that simple. It’s basically just how guys talk about it in the room, we don’t really care. If you’re a good guy, and you’re there, and you’re a good teammate, and you’re working hard, then yeah of course, it’s no problem.”"

Equality for everyone is something that everyone can get behind. We’re all human after all.