Los Angeles Dodgers manager Dave Roberts has voiced his support for the team's recent Pride Night, despite the significant public disapproval surrounding the event. The controversy stems from the Dodgers' decision to honor The Sisters of Perpetual Indulgence, a satirical LGBTQ+ group, which drew criticism from various groups.
Roberts emphasized his belief in loving and respecting everyone, regardless of their beliefs or decisions. He stated that while disagreements are inevitable, coexistence is essential. He reiterated his welcoming stance towards all fans who support the Dodgers.
The Sisters of Perpetual Indulgence were initially invited, then disinvited, and finally reinvited by the Dodgers, further fueling the controversy. Protests took place outside Dodger Stadium before the Pride Night game against the San Francisco Giants. Giants manager Gabe Kapler expressed his pride in wearing pride colors and his support for peaceful protests.
Roberts acknowledged the differing opinions but lamented the lack of coexistence in today's society. He reaffirmed his upbringing, which instilled in him the value of loving everyone. The Dodgers held a players-only meeting to discuss the issue, prompted by star pitcher Clayton Kershaw's public disagreement with the team's decision.
Kershaw's objection was specifically directed at the group's mockery of religion, not the LGBTQ+ community or Pride Night itself. Roberts expressed his openness to diverse viewpoints within the team and encouraged open dialogue and education among players.
MLB Commissioner Rob Manfred has stated that decisions regarding Pride Night events are left to individual franchises. He also noted the league's recommendation against placing logos on uniforms or other equipment to avoid putting players in potentially uncomfortable situations due to personal beliefs.
