My name is Juan Pablo Parra. I am a Mexican born artist who has lived most of his life in the U.S. As an artist, it is a great honor to be a part of the inaugural class of artists who have been chosen by the Tampa Bay Lightning to honor our social diversity through artistic expression. My design for the Hispanic Heritage month Jersey was inspired by a few aspects of Hispanic culture, and I knew that I wanted the artwork to be as colorful as the Mexican motifs I knew so well growing up.

I think Hockey Talks is a great initiative and I'm honored to help spread the message. I believe mental health is just as important if not more important than physical health, yet it's not often talked about openly. The power of speaking about your thoughts, feelings or struggles can be incredibly beneficial, whether it is to a friend, family member or a professional. Being honest about what you're feeling isn't a weakness, it's a strength that can make a real difference. My hope is that with time we can break the stigma surrounding mental health, and the struggles we all face can be shared openly and confidently.

Creating this piece for the Tampa Bay Lightning has been an incredibly meaningful opportunity, both personally and professionally. As a female artist working in the historically male-dominated world of public art and murals, being chosen to represent the intersection of sports and gender equality is an honor. Through this design, I hope to highlight that gender equality is not about erasing contrast, but about honoring it by creating space for everyone to thrive, together. I’m honored to contribute to this moment of visibility—where sports, art, and femininity intersect in powerful and transformative ways.

Everything about this design IS black history. The core elements are inspired by Harlem renaissance artist Aaron Douglas. Douglas was an advocate for equality before civil rights and depicted afro-centric themes throughout his work. He was a visionary ahead of the times. I am beyond honored to continue his message into the modern era.

Working with the Tampa Bay Lightning to create a special experience for the community has been so fulfilling. The Pride community is like a beautifully cut gem—each facet representing a unique identity, story, and experience. Just like a gem gains strength and sparkle through its many sides, the LGBTQ+ community shines through its variety—of voices, journeys, and expressions of love and self. And when we come together, we don’t just reflect the light—we amplify it.