Anti-LGBT slurs run rampant in the sports world, and apparently minor league hockey is no exception.
When Hershey Bears fan and season ticket holder Abigail Habbert and her partner heard spectators taunting opponents with discriminatory anti-gay comments, they immediately notified the team’s season ticket manager and sent a complaint to the head of stadium security. When she failed to see adequate results despite added security measures, Habbert contacted GLAAD for additional help.
This week, the head of stadium security for the Bears announced that fans responsible for the anti-gay comments had been identified, and that the team intended to publish a warning clearly announcing the stadium’s zero-tolerance policy for discriminatory behavior before and during all sporting events.
According to a GLAAD opinion blogger, the Hershey Bears “understand that there is no place in sports for anti-gay attitudes.” GLAAD representatives have expressed approval of the steps taken by Hershey Bears security officials to stem the tide of anti-LGBT behavior, and also wished the team well in the AHL semi-finals.
GLAAD helped and OMG…there were no celebrities in sight!!!! Could it be they’re trying to change their ways and be useful?