The Texas Rangers stand alone in Major League Baseball as the only team without a Pride Night, drawing criticism for their absence of inclusive celebrations. The team's last Pride Night event, held back in 2003, sparked significant backlash and protests. As the Los Angeles Dodgers recently navigated their own Pride Night controversies, current and former Rangers employees have shed light on the team's situation.
One former longtime employee described the Rangers' silence on the matter as "deafening," highlighting the missed opportunity for both positive public relations and increased revenue through inclusive practices. This individual emphasized the simplicity of hosting a Pride Night and the stark contrast between the Rangers' omission and their numerous celebrations of other fan groups and cultures. Another current, gay employee pointed to team owner Ray Davis as the potential source of the resistance, suggesting that his stance creates a negative atmosphere within the organization, despite a potential desire for inclusivity among other staff members.
The Rangers recently released a statement emphasizing their commitment to inclusivity for all fans and employees, both within the stadium and through broader community initiatives. The team highlighted their support for LGBTQ+ organizations like the NAGAAA Gay Softball World Series and the development of an inclusion council, as well as their collaboration with Dallas-based LGBTQ+ resources. This statement comes amidst renewed attention on the team's lack of a Pride Night, particularly in light of the Dodgers' recent experience with protests surrounding their own event honoring the Sisters of Perpetual Indulgence. The Dodgers' recognition of this group sparked disapproval from some players, both within the team and across the league.
