First look at Ivan Provorov in a Blue Jackets Jersey.

Don’t forget that a lot of people r/hockey still cling to the narrative that CBJ is a MAGA locker room and that’s why Dubois left, because of Jones, Werenski, and… Nathan Gerbe being MAGA supporters. It surely MUST be a CBJ exclusive issue, because we all know hockey players have great morals.

Copy of what I said in r/hockey, but anyways…

I’m very very disappointed in the choice to acquire Provorov. The Jackets have been trying to build their identity as a classy organization and an LGBTQ+ ally with their participation in Columbus Pride. Columbus itself is one of the most LGBTQ+ friendly cities in the country (something most of America doesn’t really know).

I’m not happy to have Provorov on the team and not happy about hiring Babcock given his history (Babcock has nothing to do with Pride but in terms of being a good person). Especially considering how LGBTQ+ friendly Columbus itself is, I really hate that Provorov is here. The Ohio GOP is consistently trying to undermine the rights of LGBTQ+ people and especially children, and i’m not about having a known homophobe on the team given the things Ohio Republicans are trying to do. I really thought Jarmo and John Davidson would be above bringing in a player with baggage like this, so i’m very disappointed.

Is it Provorov’s right to opt out? Yes. That is his 1st Amendment right to freedom of religion and expression. Friendly reminder though, queer people having rights is not something that you can agree to disagree on, not when the rights of LGBTQ+ people and especially youth are under attack across the country. Statistically speaking, hockey players are white, wealthy, and trend conservative. You probably would be disgusted at the political beliefs of most of your favorite players. Provorov is just one player we know about, I would bet money that his stance is not uncommon across the league.

For whatever upcoming Pride events in Columbus and CBJ Pride nights, I would really like to see the Jackets empower local organizations like Kaleidoscope or Stonewall Columbus or national organizations like the Trevor Project or GLSEN or GLAAD. Organization needs to make it clear that they support LGBTQ+ people especially in the current political climate in Ohio and do some good in the community or state.

I think Provorov’s an ass for his Pride stunt, but as you alluded to every team is going to some absolute CHUDs. Provy is just out loud about it.

I personally think Pride is extremely important, and him being on the team I support doesn’t diminish that. Ultimately this jackass wearing/not-wearing a jersey and us being angry online about about him doesn’t actually do anything for the LGBTQ+ community. We help by being welcoming and inclusive, taking direct action when possible, and donating to organizations like the Trevor Project, GLADD, etc.

That’s my unasked for opinion!