The MSE Foundation auction featured an autographed goalie mask and sticks. During warmups, select players used rainbow-colored 'Pride Tape' in celebration of the LGBTQ community which were signed and auctioned off. Braden Holtby also wore an equality-themed mask during the game.
Holtby is the Capitals' You Can Play ambassador, serving as a leader in the locker room and in the community on diversity, equality and inclusion. His items raised the most money in the auction, with his autographed mask raising $5,200 and his goalie stick raising $2,000.
Video: Caps players use Pride Tape at HIFE NightHockey Is For Everyone
Hockey is for Everyone™ (HIFE) is the official youth development program of the National Hockey League (NHL) and a component of The Biggest Assist Happens off the Ice™, the NHL's social responsibility program that builds on the League's long-standing tradition of addressing important social issues in North America and around the world. HIFE provides support and unique programing to non-profit youth hockey organizations across North America that are committed to offering children of all backgrounds opportunities to play hockey.
You Can Play
You Can Play is an organization dedicated to ensuring equality, respect and safety for all athletes, coaches and fans, without regard to sexual orientation and/or gender identity. It works to guarantee that athletes are given a fair opportunity to compete, judged by other athletes and fans alike, only by what they contribute to the sport or their team's success. You Can Play seeks to challenge the culture of locker rooms and spectator areas by focusing only on an athlete's skills, work ethic and competitive spirit. For more information on You Can Play, go to
youcanplayproject.org
.
