A San Jose Sharks goaltender declined to warm up in the team’s Pride Night-themed jersey because of his Christian religion and “personal convictions which are based on the Bible.”
When he announced on Sunday that he would not be wearing the team’s pro-LGBT themed shirts, goalkeeper James Reimer made a stir, igniting discussion and controversy among supporters and the larger community.
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“For all 13 years of my NHL career, I have been a Christian — not just in title but in how I choose to live my daily. I have a personal faith in Jesus Christ, who died on a cross for my sins and, in response, asks me to love everyone and to follow Him,” Reimer said.
“I have no hate in my heart for anyone and I have always strived to treat everyone that I encounter with respect and kindness,” The former NHL player proceeded.
“In this specific instance, I am choosing not to endorse something that is counter to my personal convictions which are based on the Bible, the highest authority in my life. I strongly believe that every person has value and worth and the LGBTQIA+ community, like all others, should be welcomed in all aspects of the game of hockey.”
The Sharks issued a statement of their own in which they praised Reimer’s judgment:
“We acknowledge and accept the rights of individuals to express themselves, including how or whether they choose to express their beliefs, regardless of the cause or topic. As an organization, we will not waver in our support of the LGBTQIA+ community and continue to encourage others to engage in active allyship.”
In a post-game chat, the courageous goalkeeper, who was getting close to free agency, openly admitted the possible effect on his career. Yet he never wavers in upholding his religious values.
“I’m sure there’s people in management or ownership that won’t look favorably on this. At the same time, I hope that there’s another handful of people in management or ownership that respect me for standing up for what I believe in and that’s a big part of who I am.”
Watch Reimer’s whole remarks down below:
