Arizona Diamondbacks Champion Inclusion
In the midst of the 2023 World Series, where the Texas Rangers and the Arizona Diamondbacks vie for baseball glory, there’s another competition taking place off the field—one centered on supporting the LGBTQ community. In this regard, it’s a striking mismatch between the two teams. If the series were based on their LGBTQ records, the D-backs would sweep every game 9-0, signaling an overwhelming victory for inclusivity.
Over the past two decades, the Arizona Diamondbacks have been at the forefront of LGBTQ inclusion in Major League Baseball. Nona Lee, who served in Arizona’s front office from 2005 to 2022, played a pivotal role in establishing the Diamondbacks’ legal department. Her proudest achievement was founding “D-backs for Change,” a team-wide initiative dedicated to inclusion. The LGBTQ+ resource group within “D-backs for Change” is led by Noel Guevara, the manager of community partnerships and programs, who has been an integral part of the Diamondbacks organization for 11 years, including organizing the team’s first Pride Night in 2017.
Inclusivity extends to the team’s clubhouse, as D-backs manager Torey Lovullo shares a profound friendship with LGBTQ advocate Billy Bean. This four-decade-long bond is a testament to the importance of understanding and support within the baseball community. Their journey began during college when they played summer ball together in 1984, and their connection deepened as they navigated the minor leagues. Lovullo, now managing the Diamondbacks, honored their promise that whichever one of them became a manager first would make the other his bench coach, showcasing the enduring power of friendship even amid adversity.
Texas Rangers: An Ongoing Struggle
In stark contrast, the Texas Rangers have a less impressive track record when it comes to LGBTQ inclusion. While they compete in the World Series, their last LGBTQ event dates back to the year Creed was nominated for a Grammy. Despite hosting an LGBTQ fundraising event in 2003, this was met with backlash during the George W. Bush presidency, perpetuating stereotypes and discrimination.
The Rangers remain the only team in baseball that does not host a Pride Night, leading to frustration among LGBTQ fans and those within the organization who support inclusion. Even sportswriter Alex Plinck, a gay reporter covering the Rangers for years, attests to the welcoming attitude of the team’s players and managers. However, the Rangers’ refusal to embrace Pride Nights remains a perplexing and divisive issue.
While the Texas Rangers have LGBTQ fans and allies within their ranks, the reluctance to host a Pride Night persists, seemingly influenced by a powerful figure within ownership. As the 2023 World Series unfolds, the stark contrast between these two teams in their support for the LGBTQ community serves as a reminder of the ongoing battle for inclusion in the world of baseball.
This World Series not only showcases athletic prowess but also highlights the broader challenges and opportunities for promoting LGBTQ acceptance in professional sports.