Pro Hockey Player Labeled ‘Homophobic’ as He Faces Backlash for Boycotting Team’s Pride Festivities

Philadelphia Flyers defenseman Ivan Provorov faced backlash for his decision to boycott the organization’s Pride night to support the LGBTQ+ community.

Provorov didn’t participate in pregame warmups when the team wore Pride-themed jerseys and used sticks wrapped in rainbow Pride tape. He cited his Russian Orthodox religion as the reason why he didn’t participate. He eventually played in the game against the Anaheim Ducks.

“I respect everybody and I respect everybody’s choices,” he told reporters after the game. “My choice is to stay true to myself and my religion. That’s all I’m going to say.”

The Russia native, who is in his seventh season with the Flyers, received backlash on social media for the boycott.

But Provorov obviously does not respect “everyone”. If he did respect everyone, he would have taken part in warm-up and worn the Pride Night jersey. Don’t hide behind religion. https://t.co/Qk6dTgAnmP

— Pierre LeBrun (@PierreVLeBrun) January 18, 2023

1. Ivan Provorov had the right to refuse to participate in the Pride Night activities in Philadelphia.

2. The Flyers should have responded by not allowing him to play in the game.

3. Freedom of expression doesn’t give you freedom from the consequences of your words or actions. https://t.co/9fdffAQk1N

— Gord Miller 🌻 (@GMillerTSN) January 18, 2023

Being LGBT+ is not a "choice." Being ignorant, obnoxious, and homophobic is a choice.

Ivan Provorov wasn't wearing uniform tonight and the @NHLFlyers should not have let him play. Stop letting bigots hide behind their cherry-picked religion. Do better. https://t.co/WTnqibGsXj

— Rachael Millanta (@rachaelmillanta) January 18, 2023

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