Purpose:

Inclusion within Seattle Pride Hockey Association’s programs centers the experiences of LGBTQIA+ and other underrepresented community players, creating a space where all individuals feel welcomed, supported, and respected. These players—along with allies—share the responsibility of actively fostering an inclusive environment both on and off the ice.

What Does Inclusion Look Like in Hockey?

• Centering Community Voices – Prioritize and elevate the voices, needs, and experiences of LGBTQIA+ and underrepresented community players, ensuring their perspectives are heard and acted upon. Recognize and address power imbalances while promoting equity within our hockey spaces.
  
  
• Building Genuine Relationships – Inclusion goes beyond the rink. Seek to build authentic friendships with LGBTQIA+ and underrepresented players, engaging in casual conversations, providing encouraging feedback, and breaking down social barriers to foster connection.
  
  
• Decentering Yourself – Step outside of your own viewpoint and observe hockey culture through the lens of LGBTQIA+ and underrepresented players. Understand how experiences in the game may differ based on identity and be mindful of biases in interpretation.
  
  
• Listen & Learn – Be open to feedback from LGBTQIA+ and underrepresented players without defensiveness. Avoid centering responses around personal intent and instead focus on understanding the impact of words and actions. Lead with a commitment to learning, growth, and making hockey a safer space for all.
  
  
• Playing with Inclusivity in Mind – Competitive play should always be mutual, consensual, and conducted in a safe and respectful environment. Players should never use intimidation, excessive aggression, or physical dominance to deter others—particularly those from historically excluded communities—from fully participating.
  
  
• Being an Advocate of Inclusion On and Off the Ice – Stand up against homophobia, transphobia, racism, sexism, ableism, and all forms of discrimination and hate. If you see or hear something that goes against our values, speak up or report it. Advocacy is an everyday action that strengthens our hockey community.

By participating in our programs, all players—LGBTQIA+, underrepresented community members, and allies alike—commit to upholding these values and ensuring hockey remains a sport where everyone belongs.