Flyers Defenseman Ivan Provorov Boycotts Team’s Pride Night Citing His Religion: “I Respect Everybody”
Len Redkoles/NHLI via Getty
Ivan Provorov, Philadelphia Flyers defenseman, was widely criticised on social media for refusing to take part in team activities that support the LGBTQ+ community.
On Tuesday’s Pride Night, the team used pregame jerseys and hockey sticks with rainbow colors. The items were up for auction to benefit charity. ESPN.
According to the outlet, Provorov (26 years old) was the only person who didn’t have any of the listed items for the auction.
Provorov stated to reporters that he didn’t participate in the event to “stay faithful to myself and to my religion”, adding that he identified with Russian Orthodox.
The Russian native stated, “I respect everybody.” “I respect all people’s choices.”
RELATED: MLB Pitcher and LGBTQ Ally Liam Hendriks Made Sure White Sox Had a Pride Night Before Joining Team
Provorov participated in the game, helping the Flyers defeat the Anaheim Ducks 5-2.
Representatives from Provorov claimed they did not have any comment on the defenseman’s decision.
“Provorov evidently does not respect everyone’,” tweeted hockey broadcaster Pierre LeBrun. “If he respected everyone, he’d have taken part in warm up and worn the Pride Night jersey. Don’t hide behind religion.”
“Being LGBT+ does not make you a choice. The NHL writer added that being ignorant, obnoxious, or homophobic is not a choice. Rachael Millanta.
John Tortorella, Flyers coach, addressed Provorov’s refusal after the game and said that he believed it would be unfair to bench him because of his beliefs.
RELATED: San Francisco Giants to Become First MLB Team to Wear Pride Uniforms
Tortorella said that Provy is being true to himself as well as his origins. Philly Hockey Now. It has to do his belief system and religion. Provy is a man I admire for one thing: He is always true to himself.
G.O.A.L. was presented by the Flyers. The Flyers presented G.O.A.L. with a $5,000 check during game.
RELATED VIDEO 2 Alaska Airlines Employees Engage on Pride Flight After Both Planned To Propose
The Flyers stated in a statement to ESPN that they are “committed to inclusion and diversity.” [are] Proud to support the LGBTQ+ Community
“Many of our players are active supporters of local LGBTQ+ organisations, and we were proud again to host our annual Pride Night,” they said. “The Flyers will continue being strong advocates for inclusion, and the LGBTQ+ communities.
Philly HockeyNow reports that the Flyers hosted a skate pre-game for LGBTQ+ youth and officers of the Greater Philadelphia G.O.A.L. organization.