On Friday night, the Los Angeles Dodgers held their 12th annual LGBTQ+ Pride Night at Dodger Stadium, a tradition that began in 2000 when they became the first major North American sports franchise to celebrate Pride. The event, however, faced its share of controversy, particularly in light of the developments during the 2023 Pride Night.
This year, the Dodgers received significant backlash after inviting the Sisters of Perpetual Indulgence, a group that identifies as “leading-edge Order of queer and trans nuns.” Following internal and external resistance, the Dodgers initially uninvited the Sisters but later reversed that decision and issued a public apology, leading to intensified discussions around representation and community values.
Pitchers Clayton Kershaw and Blake Treinen were notably outspoken against the Sisters’ participation. Kershaw described their presence as making fun of religion, which he does not support. While he wore the Dodgers’ special rainbow-themed cap, he also referenced a Bible verse that has been used to oppose LGBTQ+ pride, indicating a tension between his faith and the celebration of the LGBTQ+ community on such an important night.
The Sisters of Perpetual Indulgence focus on community service, human rights, and spiritual enlightenment, without the intent of parody or mockery, which highlights a disconnect between the players’ interpretations and the group’s mission.
Moreover, manager Dave Roberts’ response to social issues surrounding recent protests against Immigration and Customs Enforcement raids drew criticism as he admitted to not having enough information to comment intelligently. This lack of engagement from prominent figures within the organization brings to the forefront the responsibility of sports leaders to address significant societal issues, especially when their fan base includes diverse communities affected by these policies.
The Dodgers’ track record with LGBTQ+ Pride Night shows the complexities of navigating social values within sports. The events surrounding this year’s Pride Night underscore the ongoing dialogue about representation, inclusion, and the responsibilities of public figures in addressing both marginalized communities and broader societal issues.
Overall, while challenges remain, the continued recognition of Pride Night by the Dodgers is a step towards fostering greater acceptance and understanding within sports culture. It also opens the door for more nuanced discussions about faith, community, and the importance of standing in solidarity with those at the margins of society.