The Dallas Stars on Wednesday, Aug. 9, put out a statement opposing the bathroom bill and became the first professional sports team to do so.
“We’ve been working closely with the Dallas Sports Commission and with Visit Dallas,” said Dallas Stars spokesman Ben Fromstein, explaining why the team issued the statement against the bills.
The NHL isn’t in favor of the bill that would discriminate against some of its fans, either. When the league announced Dallas would host the NHL draft next year, they also warned, “We strongly oppose the bill in its original form,” and said if the bill passed, “We would have to reassess if that happens.”
The Dallas Stars President and CEO James R. Lites issued the statement on behalf of the team.
“Jim speaks for all of us,” Fromstein said.
He said the reaction has been “overwhelmingly positive” with minor pushback on Facebook and Twitter.
Here’s the team’s statement:
When the Stars moved to Dallas in 1993 we were fortunate to encounter success early on, and we’ve cultivated what we consider to be the best fan base in the National Hockey League. Dallas was warm and welcoming when we came to this great city 25 years ago, and it remains so today. The Dallas Stars stands strongly opposed to any legislation perceived as discriminatory, including proposed bathroom legislation. We welcome fans from all over the globe, and our roster boasts players from half a dozen countries. Dallas welcomes all, and we welcome all.
We’re thrilled that Dallas will host the NHL Draft next year, and we’re grateful that the NHL sees the true Dallas that we know and love, a Dallas that is friendly and vibrant. Dallas will be a wonderful host city and we’re grateful for the NHL’s business. We are proud of our home and want every visitor to feel at home here, too, and that’ s why we oppose this discriminatory bathroom legislation.
For tickets to Dallas Stars games, call 214-467-8277 or buy them online. Pre-season begins Sept. 19.