How The Seattle Kraken Became Hockey’s Most Unlikely LGBTQIA+ Allies
Hockey might be known for its grit and macho culture, but thanks to Joey Gale and Steven Thompson, the sport in Seattle is embracing a whole new kind of power – diversity and inclusion. Gale, a proud gay hockey player, co-founded the Seattle Pride Hockey Association alongside Thompson, with a bold mission to promote LGBTQIA+ visibility and create a safe space for anyone passionate about the sport.
Their efforts inspired support from Seattle’s NHL franchise, the Kraken, leading to a partnership bound to make waves for decades.
Back in 2019, Gale wrote a deeply personal piece for Outsports, reflecting on an important piece of advice from a mentor: “Do something every day to queer the space around you.” Fast forward to January, Gale and Thompson were front and centre at the Kraken’s Pride Night at the iconic Climate Pledge Arena.
In a stadium with over 18,000 cheering fans, the two were celebrated as the Kraken’s Heroes Of The Deep. Their activism was displayed proudly on the Jumbotron for all to see, making it a moment not just for hockey, but for representation.
“It meant a ton to bring some rainbows, bring some Pride, bring some representation into the arena,” Gale shared, highlighting the power of visibility in traditionally conservative spaces.
From Passion Project to Global Movement
Seattle Pride Hockey began as a way for LGBTQIA+ hockey players and fans to connect. Its first major event, the Seattle Pride Classic in 2021, started with four teams and quickly became the world’s largest Pride hockey tournament.
The tournament became more than a competition, it became a space for authenticity. Some players came out to loved ones during the event, while a mother shared how it was her first time seeing her transgender son play. These moments emphasised why the work matters.
The Kraken’s Allyship
Before the Kraken even had a name, they reached out to Gale and Thompson, forming a relationship rooted in allyship. Their collaboration deepened even as the NHL banned Pride jerseys and Pride Tape. The Kraken responded by amplifying their support, hosting Pride events and outfitting community members in Pride jerseys.
“They’ve done such a great job from day one of practising what they preach,” Gale said.
Seattle Pride Hockey continues to grow, with the upcoming Frozen Pride Classic outdoor tournament set for February. For Gale, it’s a sign of progress in a sport where LGBTQIA+ representation once felt impossible.
“We’ve come so far, but there’s still more work to do,” he said.
