The San Jose Sharks issued an apology following the display of an inappropriate message on their video board during a game celebrating Hispanic heritage. The message, which appeared during the first intermission of the Sharks’ match against the Pittsburgh Penguins on September 30, 2023, appeared to commend Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) and read, “SJ SHARKS FANS/LOVE ICE !!/GET ‘EM BOYZ !”
The team’s management recognized the error and addressed it later in the game. In a statement, Sharks Sports & Entertainment expressed regret for the incident, describing the displayed message as “offensively worded.” They clarified that the message had been submitted externally and was inadvertently shown on the in-arena scoreboard.
Sharks Address Oversight and Commitment to Values
The organization emphasized their disappointment in failing to catch the message during their standard review process. “The Sharks organization sincerely apologizes for this oversight, and we are actively working to determine the origin of the message,” the statement continued.
This incident occurred during the Sharks’ ninth annual celebration known as “Los Tiburones Night,” which honors and showcases Hispanic heritage. The timing of the message drew additional scrutiny, as it appeared to contradict the spirit of the event intended to celebrate diversity and inclusion.
The Sharks’ response highlights the ongoing challenges sports organizations face in managing fan interactions and the content displayed during games. Maintaining a positive atmosphere for all fans is crucial, especially during themed events that aim to foster community and support.
This incident serves as a reminder of the importance of scrutiny in public messaging, particularly in settings that celebrate cultural heritage. Moving forward, the Sharks are committed to ensuring that all messages align with the values of respect and inclusivity that they advocate.
