U.S. Rep. Mike Quigley, D-Ill., ditched the formal attire Sept. 6 and, instead, sported a red Chicago Blackhawks jersey with No. 21 and MIKITA across the back.
Quigley, a hockey aficionado who even played ice hockey in the 2006 Gay Games in Chicago, sported the jersey of Hall of Famer Stan Mikita—for a work event, no less.
Quigley, Mayor Rahm Emanuel, Ald. Tom Tunney and other dignitaries attended a youth hockey clinic at the Center on Halsted in Lakeview. Plus, Quigley and Blackhawk Charities donated $2,000 in street hockey equipment for permanent use at the Center, including six boxes of street hockey sticks, balls, nets and goalie equipment.
"Hockey is for everyone, and we're trying to bring all sports to all kids, and not just limit it to a few," Quigley said. "My goal is to bring some version of hockey to every kid in Chicago, if they want to play it."
Hockey Hall of Famer Denis Savard attended the event, along with current Blackhawks Niklas Hjalmarsson and Brett McLean. Chicago Cubs CEO Tom Ricketts was also present.
Members of the Chicago Gay Hockey Association ( CGHA ) , including team president Andrew Sobotka and Tony Tiet, attended as well.
"I am committed to building a healthier Chicago which focuses on providing children more opportunities to be physically active," Emanuel said in a statement. "Thanks to the Chicago Blackhawks for investing in Chicago's communities and giving children in neighborhoods across the city the opportunity to play hockey and be active."
Emanuel talked of his push for all to be active and told of his participation in last month's Chicago Triathlon. Plus, Emanuel joked about Quigley's passion for hockey. Quigley also joked about his passion for the Hawks and hatred for their arch-rival Detroit Red Wings.
The mayor received a Blackhawks red jersey with No. 11 and EMANUEL on the back.
"Every once in a while you get to do something fun and still do something for a worthwhile cause. The Hawks have been just outstanding with this program," Quigley said. "The idea is to eventually make hockey available to every gym in Chicago that wants it, [ including ] every high school gym and every park district."
Blackhawk Charities donates equipment to about six youth centers annually, such as Boys & Girls Clubs and schools.
"It was great," said Brian Richardson, director of public affairs for the Center. "Seeing the mayor, the congressman, the Blackhawks, including a Hall of Famer, all here together to support LGBT youth and provide safe space and athletic programs for all people, it's overwhelming to be part of a community where your elected officials and your sports heroes are standing shoulder to shoulder with the LGBT community, working to make a difference."
Richardson said the street hockey equipment will have a "huge impact on the Center. The more resources our community has, the more we're able to do together."
"The Chicago Blackhawks are proud to partner with U.S. Representative Mike Quigley, Mayor Rahm Emanuel and Center on Halsted on this great initiative," Blackhawks team president and CEO John McDonough said in a statement. He did not attend the event, but several high-ranking team officials were present.
"We are appreciative of their support in growing the sport of hockey on a grassroots level while delivering such a positive effect on so many young people in our city."
"Athletics can help young people build confidence and leadership," Center on Halsted CEO Modesto "Tico" Valle said in a statement. "Unfortunately, too many LGBT youth are prevented from participating fully in team sports because of bullying or other obstacles. We're proud to work with Mayor Emanuel, Rep. Quigley and the Chicago Blackhawks to provide the equipment, the training and the safe environment necessary for LGBT youth to participate."
As for his casual attire, Quigley said with a laugh, "Just another day at the office."
