Pride Toronto, the non-profit organization responsible for organizing the annual Pride Parade in Toronto, has recently acknowledged a strong connection with the Toronto Blue Jays. This connection is not just limited to the fact that both organizations are based in Toronto, but it goes much deeper than that.
The Blue Jays have been a strong supporter of the LGBTQ+ community for many years. In 2012, they became the first Major League Baseball team to release an “It Gets Better” video, which is a campaign aimed at preventing suicide among LGBTQ+ youth. The video featured players and staff members of the Blue Jays, who shared messages of hope and support for LGBTQ+ youth.
Since then, the Blue Jays have continued to show their support for the LGBTQ+ community. In 2016, they became the first team in MLB history to host a Pride Night. The event was a huge success, with thousands of fans showing up to support the LGBTQ+ community and watch the Blue Jays play.
Pride Toronto has also been a strong advocate for LGBTQ+ rights and visibility. The organization was founded in 1981 and has been organizing the annual Pride Parade in Toronto since then. The parade is one of the largest Pride events in the world, attracting millions of visitors every year.
The connection between Pride Toronto and the Blue Jays was strengthened in 2019 when the team became an official sponsor of Pride Toronto. This sponsorship was a significant milestone for both organizations, as it showed their commitment to promoting equality and inclusivity.
As part of the sponsorship, the Blue Jays hosted a Pride Night at Rogers Centre in June 2019. The event featured a pre-game party, a special Pride-themed jersey, and a post-game fireworks display. The event was a huge success, with over 7,000 fans in attendance.
The partnership between Pride Toronto and the Blue Jays has been beneficial for both organizations. It has helped to raise awareness about LGBTQ+ issues and promote inclusivity in sports. It has also helped to bring the LGBTQ+ community and sports fans closer together.
In conclusion, the strong connection between Pride Toronto and the Blue Jays is a testament to their shared commitment to promoting equality and inclusivity. Both organizations have shown that they are willing to take a stand for what they believe in and support those who need it most. Their partnership is a shining example of how sports can be used to bring people together and create positive change in the world.