A new fan collective known as the Carolina Gayniacs is reshaping how LGBTQ supporters experience hockey in North Carolina.
Building a Community on the Ice
The group traces its roots to a modest social‑media post two months ago, when a gay Canes fan reached out to others seeking companionship while watching games. What began as a small gathering quickly swelled into a weekly tradition of watch parties and shared celebrations.
Matt Parr, a co‑founder, recalls never feeling safe in rinks or locker rooms while growing up, and he now works to ensure that newcomers do not share that anxiety. "I want anyone who loves the Hurricanes to feel welcome," he says.
Dana Salmon‑Skjellum, another co‑founder, adds that some LGBTQ fans have endured slurs in stadiums and parking lots, underscoring the need for a protected space. "The community has been hungry for a place where they can be themselves," she explains.
Weekly events, including a recent watch party at Raleigh Brewing, have drawn larger crowds each time, turning the gatherings into a staple of the local fan calendar. The organizers say the momentum shows no sign of slowing, even as the NHL season draws to a close.
Looking ahead, the Gayniacs plan a larger outing at the Lenovo Center and hope to extend their model to other teams, signaling a broader cultural shift within the sport. Their story illustrates how grassroots initiatives can reshape long‑standing traditions.