We, the undersigned, urge the National Hockey League to reconsider giving Carter Hart a platform within the league.

This petition is not an attempt to challenge or overturn the outcome of any legal proceedings. While Carter Hart was acquitted, we believe the NHL has the right and responsibility to consider factors beyond the legal standard when deciding who represents and plays in the league.

Professional athletes are more than entertainers. They are role models for millions of young people who watch them, wear their jerseys, and aspire to follow in their footsteps. The NHL actively promotes its players as ambassadors of the sport, and with that visibility comes responsibility.

A player's reputation can affect not only their own image but also the image of the teams, sponsors, and communities connected to them. 

At a time when concerns about misogyny, sexual harassment, and the treatment of women remain prevalent in society, the NHL should strive to demonstrate leadership. The league's decisions send messages that reach far beyond the rink. Many fans want to see a league that prioritizes respect, accountability, and the values it wishes to promote to future generations.

Participation in the NHL is a privilege, not an entitlement. We believe the league should carefully consider the message it sends when deciding who is given the opportunity to represent the sport on its biggest stage.

In recent months, many fans have expressed anger, disappointment, and frustration online at the prospect of Carter Hart returning to the NHL. Public discussion surrounding his return has generated significant controversy, and criticism has often extended beyond the player himself to the organizations associated with him.

Reputational consequences are a reality in professional sports and the recent months have shown the controversy surrounding the case continues to follow him in the public eye. Public discussion regarding his return has also extended to the Las Vegas Golden Knights, with many fans expressing criticism of the organization's decision to associate itself with him. Teams are judged not only by their performance on the ice but also by the values they appear to uphold. When a player becomes the focus of a public controversy, that scrutiny can affect teammates, management, ownership, sponsors, and the league as a whole.

Many fans feel that allowing Hart to return sends a message that the NHL is willing to overlook serious concerns in order to prioritize talent on the ice.

We therefore call upon the NHL and its member clubs to reconsider providing Carter Hart with a platform and to establish clear standards that reflect the values of integrity, respect, and responsibility that fans expect from the game of hockey.