Penguins President of Hockey Operations Brian Burke Marches attends Pleasure occasions in Pittsburgh – CBS Pittsburgh

By: KDKA-TV News Staff

PITTSBURGH (KDKA) – When the Pittsburgh Pride Revolution March began in downtown Pittsburgh on Saturday afternoon, Brian Burke, President of Hockey Operations for Penguins, was one of the team’s participants.

In a social media post, the penguins shared photos of the participants, including Burke.

️‍🌈 pic.twitter.com/6HQq9DmiTv

– Pittsburgh Penguins (@penguins) June 5, 2021

Burke himself also shared a post on social media saying he was “proud to march in Pittsburgh this weekend,” in memory of his son Brendan and in support of his LGBTQIA friends.

I am proud to march in Pittsburgh this weekend in memory of my son Brendan and in support of my LGBTQIA friends. I hope to see you there! ️‍🌈 pic.twitter.com/deRWzgXPwe

– Brian Burke (@ Burkie2020) June 5, 2021

Burke is a long-time supporter of LGBTQ + initiatives after marching and leading these teams in both Toronto and Calgary Pride parades before coming to Pittsburgh.

Burke’s son Brendan appeared publicly in 2009, while speaking out against homophobia in sports and fighting for inclusion.

Brendan was killed in a car accident in 2010.

After his death, Brendan’s brother Patrick, now NHL manager, helped found the You Can Play project, which aims to ensure safety and inclusion for all sports enthusiasts and was launched in honor of Brendan’s life.

Patrick and Brian have loudly supported this and other LGBTQ + initiatives in honor of and in memory of Brendan.