The National Hockey League (NHL) and the NHL Players' Association (NHLPA) have joined forces to establish the Player Inclusion Coalition, an initiative aimed at fostering diversity and inclusion within the sport. This group comprises 20 members, representing a diverse range of backgrounds and perspectives, including players of color, LGBTQ+ players, and allies. Their collective mission is to champion equality and inclusivity both on and off the ice.

Anson Carter, a former NHL player with over 674 games under his belt, serves as co-chair of the coalition. He emphasized the group's shared dedication to promoting diversity and inclusion in hockey. The coalition aims to amplify the voices of players as advisors, ambassadors, and drivers of meaningful change, ultimately benefiting underrepresented groups within the sport. Looking ahead, the coalition plans to broaden its impact by engaging with fans and inviting everyone who loves hockey to participate in this important movement.

Retired U.S. hockey star Meghan Duggan, a member of the coalition and an advocate for the LGBTQ+ community, acknowledges the sport's historical challenges with diversity and inclusion. She underscores the coalition's purpose: to continually push for progress, offer recommendations, and encourage players to become visible allies. Duggan stresses the importance of education and readily available resources that can help individuals understand appropriate terminology and engage respectfully with marginalized communities.

The coalition's formation follows the NHL's recent decision to discontinue the wearing of themed jerseys, including Pride jerseys, during warmups. Commissioner Gary Bettman clarified that while themed nights will continue, and players may still model themed jerseys, they will not be worn on the ice during warmups. Duggan affirmed the league's commitment to celebrating Pride nights and welcoming the LGBTQ+ community, emphasizing plans for even larger and more impactful events in the future.

Commissioner Bettman highlighted the coalition's crucial role in providing the NHL with unique insights into equality and inclusivity directly from the players' perspective.