The Los Angeles Dodgers honored the Sisters of Perpetual Indulgence during their 10th annual Pride Night, sparking mixed reactions and a significant police presence at Dodger Stadium. The pre-game ceremony, held well before the game began, saw members of the Sisters of Perpetual Indulgence accepting the Community Hero Award. Stadium announcer Todd Leitz recognized the group for their "outstanding service to the LGBTQ+ community."
Sister Dominia and Sister Unity accepted the award on behalf of the Sisters of Perpetual Indulgence. The decision to honor the group followed weeks of controversy and an initial removal and subsequent reinvitation by the Dodgers. The team issued an apology, citing "thoughtful feedback" and "honest conversations."
The Dodgers' decision also prompted pitcher Clayton Kershaw to announce the relaunch of the team's Christian Faith and Family Day. Kershaw explained that while the event was always planned, the timing of the announcement was expedited in response to the controversy.
Hours before the game, thousands of protesters, organized by Catholics for Catholics, gathered outside Dodger Stadium. The group held a "prayerful procession" and displayed signs and flags, with many wearing red in honor of the sacred heart. The protest eventually reached Vin Scully Avenue, appearing to block a stadium entrance around the time of the award ceremony.
This incident follows other recent instances of athletes expressing their views on Pride Nights, including Tampa Bay Rays players declining Pride-themed jerseys and Toronto Blue Jays pitcher Anthony Bass apologizing for supporting anti-LGBTQ+ boycotts.
