San Jose Sharks goalie James Reimer is underneath hearth after he refused to put on an LGBTQ-themed “Delight Evening” jersey forward of his staff’s Saturday dwelling recreation in opposition to the New York Islanders.

Reimer was not on the ice throughout the Sharks’ pregame warmup when the staff wore the jerseys.

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The jerseys had been meant as an effort to “proceed a long-standing dedication of allyship with the LGBTQIA+ group,” in line with a press release launched by the Sharks group.

“Sharks Sports activities and Leisure is extraordinarily proud to host our 2023 Sharks Delight Evening. This week’s occasions, culminating with tonight’s recreation in opposition to the New York Islander, reinforce our group’s values and dedication to an inclusive, welcoming, an secure surroundings for all visitors in every of our venues.”

They had been designed by a queer artist and displayed a Delight crest and patch studying “Love Wins.”

Reimer boycotted the warmup skate and refused to put on the jersey on account of his Christian religion.

“For all 13 years of my NHL profession, I’ve been a Christian,” Reimer stated in a press release. “Not simply in title, however in how I select to dwell my life each day. I’ve private religion in Jesus Christ for my sins and, In response, asks me to like everybody and comply with him.”

He has no hate in his coronary heart and strives to deal with everybody with respect and kindness, Reimer stated.

“On this particular occasion, I’m selecting to not endorse one thing that’s counter to my private convictions that are primarily based on the Bible, the very best authority in my life,” his assertion learn.

“I strongly consider that each particular person has worth and value, and the LGBTQIA+ group, like all others needs to be welcomed in all points of the sport of hockey.”

Following Reimer’s refusal to put on the “Delight Evening” jersey, he has been criticized by many within the hockey and LGBTQ communities.

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Chief among the many critics is Pittsburgh Penguins President of Hockey Operations Brian Burke.

“I repeat that I’m extraordinarily dissatisfied,” Burke stated. “I want gamers would perceive that the Delight sweaters are about inclusion and welcoming all people. A participant sporting delight colours or tape is not endorsing a set of values or enlisting in trigger! He’s saying you might be welcome right here. And you might be, in each single NHL constructing.”