by Evan Stambaugh
The Minnesota Wild will be raising money for a kids’ “gender health program” during its first-ever “Pride Night.”
On Tuesday, March 29, just prior to their game against the Philadelphia Flyers, the Wild will wear “pride” jerseys during warmups. Those jerseys will then be signed and auctioned off, with a portion of the proceeds going to the Wild Foundation and the Children’s Minnesota Gender Health program, according to an NHL news release.
“The Gender Health program provides compassionate and comprehensive care for transgender and gender-diverse youth,” says Children’s Minnesota. “We’re dedicated to serving as an essential medical partner and resource for transgender youth and families along their journey.”
According to the pediatric nonprofit, the program entails an initial consultation with a physician in which children over the age of 10 can take part in a “confidential interview.” The next steps are to establish “support” and then a care program involving “puberty blockers, menstrual suppression, and/or gender-affirming hormones.”
“Begin age-appropriate gender-affirming treatments when ready,” the program summary states. “We will ensure that you have the skills and tools you need to administer certain treatments at home.
“You will continue to have follow-up appointments with our providers to monitor your treatment. Our social worker can provide parent support, education, and resources along the way,” the summary adds.
Per the NHL news release on the Minnesota Wild’s “Pride Night,” some of the proceeds from a special ticket package for the Tuesday game will go to the nonprofit Twin Cities Pride.
“Pride pucks will be used and players will use Pride tape on their sticks during pre-game warm-ups. Pride pucks used during warm-ups will be donated to Twin Cities Pride,” the news release adds.
– – –
Evan Stambaugh is a freelance writer who had previously been a sports blogger. He has a BA in theology and an MA in philosophy.
Photo “Minnesota Wild hockey game” by Minnesota Wild.
