Seattle Kraken’s Pride Logo Sparks Mixed Reactions

The NHL’s Seattle Kraken faced a variety of responses on Thursday following the introduction of their new Pride-themed logo and uniforms.

The logo showcases a rainbow-colored unicorn, contorted into the shape of the letter “S,” placed within a rainbow-trimmed outline of the traditional team logo. On the same day, the team held a Pride Night event.

Social media users had a field day with the design. One of the top comments on the team’s first post read, “Rite of Humiliation for the Players.” Another user said, “We must defeat the Wake Mind Virus.” Someone even humorously labeled the team the “Seattle Karens.”

However, not all feedback was negative. Many fans expressed support for the Kraken’s design. One user remarked, “It’s great to see Seattle standing tall at a time when many are hesitant to support the LGBTQ community for fear of retaliation.” Another fan simply said, “This is hard.”

Typically, professional sports teams launch LGBTQ-themed logos and merchandise in June for Pride Month, but the Kraken chose to unveil their design six months earlier.

In 2023, the NHL decided to prohibit players from wearing specialty sweaters during warm-ups for events like Pride, Hockey’s Fight Against Cancer, and Military Appreciation Day, although they adjusted the policy later to allow Pride stick tape.

Commissioner Gary Bettman stated at the time, “It just further distracts from the essence of the purpose of this night… we will remain focused on the game, and on this special night, we will remain focused on the cause.”