Islanders Celebrate Pride Night This Friday
Feb 2, 2023Bridgeport Islanders defenseman Ryan MacKinnon met with members of the University of Bridgeport’s Gender & Sexualities Awareness club ahead of Friday’s “Pride Night” celebration at Total Mortgage Arena. The Islanders host the Hershey Bears at 7 p.m. and tickets are on sale now!
Julia Gavriildis, a junior at the university and president of the GSA, spoke with MacKinnon for a brief Q&A regarding LGBTQ+ advocacy, allyship, and the Hockey is for Everyone initiative in professional hockey.
Q: What does “Hockey is for Everyone” mean to you?
A: “Hockey is for Everyone means creating an environment where someone can be true to themselves and not try to be someone they are not. I think that is the main part with everything going on in the world right now.”
Q: How can you create and help build a safe space for teammates, opponents, and fans?
A: “Continuing on this right path and building awareness. Language is very important, not everyone uses the same language, but being cautious and inclusive is a major key. Including everyone and keeping hockey a trustworthy environment are also important aspects.”
Q: What does it mean to be an ally?
A: “I think it is very important to support one another as people become more comfortable standing up to others who may not be aware who they are affecting. More people making sure that others are aware of things that are and aren’t acceptable.”
Q: How has the social world impacted the LGBTQ+ community in a positive way?
A: “A positive aspect of social media right now is that you can reach out to anybody and find communities that you feel a part of.”
On Friday, fans can show support for the LGBTQ community and help create an inclusive environment for all players and fans in attendance. Before the Islanders take on the Bears, there will be a Bridgeport Islanders’ fanny pack giveaway as well as a pre-game drag queen and DJ performance on the concourse. There will also be opportunities to learn more about the LGBTQ community by visiting the University of Bridgeport’s GSA and Q Plus, an LGBTQ youth group, on the concourse.
Before and during Friday’s contest, fans will be able to visit the University of Bridgeport’s GSA booth on the concourse, led by members of the club along with a drag show from 6 p.m. until puck drop at 7 p.m.