More work needed to make hockey safe for LGBTQ people, says former pro player

NHL players refusing to participate in Pride nights around the league shows hockey still isn't safe for a number of LGBTQ people, says one of the first male professional players to publicly come out as gay.

Brock McGillis is working to change the sport he loves through a new non-profit, Alphabet Sports Collective, which looks to make hockey safer for people of all sexualities and gender identities.

"I think [the Pride night controversy] is just a testament that we have to build up community and work with our members to feel good," said McGillis, who played in the Ontario Hockey League, the United Hockey League and in the Netherlands.

"The more people are exposed to those that are different than themselves, the more likely they are to not judge, not be anti-LGBTQ+. We lack exposure in this world, we lack identities in this world. So by getting young adults and adults out there, the exposure itself will hopefully help people critically think about what they're doing and the impact it has on people they know."

NHL teams have long held annual Pride nights to celebrate LGBTQ people and promote inclusivity, but controversy has bubbled this season as an increasing number of players have refused to take part.

Others around the league have followed suit.

The New York Rangers, Minnesota Wild and Chicago all decided not to don Pride warm-up jerseys for their celebratory games.

Closeted hockey players are hurt by these decisions, McGillis said.

"That player believes that those teammates hate him," he said. "I'm telling you that because I was that player. That player is further in the closet today."

WATCH | Handful of players object to wearing Pride jerseys:

Other NHL teams have continued with big Pride celebrations, with