The Pink Light Event: A Night of Film, Community, and Courage in Sport

On Friday, November 21, the Pink Light screening in Ottawa brought together athletes, advocates, community members, and allies for an unforgettable evening of storytelling, connection, and impact. Hosted by Alphabet Sports Collective as part of the One Shift At A Time Tour, the event coincided with Trans Awareness Week—making the night even more powerful and significant.  Ian Mendes from the Ottawa Senators moderated a moving panel discussion featuring filmmaker and former professional hockey player Harrison Browne, producer Macaulee Cassaday, and producer/co-writer/actor Nicolette Pearse

From the moment doors opened, there was a sense that this was more than just a film screening. It was a space intentionally created for safety, belonging, and honest conversation in sport.

A Film That Sparked Conversation and Connection

Pink Light captivated the room with its deeply personal and moving storytelling, shining a light on the lived experiences of transgender and non-binary individuals in sport. The audience was fully engaged—there were moments of laughter, deep reflection, and collective emotion that underscored the power of representation on screen.

Following the screening, a dynamic panel discussion and Q&A invited the audience to reflect, ask hard questions, and share their own experiences. The conversation focused on:

• Barriers trans and non-binary athletes continue to face
• The importance of visibility and policy in sport
• How organizations, teams, and fans can take meaningful action

The discussion reinforced what we know to be true at ASC: change happens when we choose to listen, learn, and lead together.

Building Community Beyond the Screen

What made the evening truly special wasn’t just what happened on stage—it was what happened in the room. Community members connected across generations, identities, and experiences. Youth spoke with role models. First-time attendees found a place where they felt seen and heard. Longtime supporters shared stories of why inclusive sport matters to them.

This sense of connection is at the heart of ASC’s mission: to ensure that everyone—players, leaders, and fans—has a place in hockey and in sport.

Impact at a Glance

• Strong turnout from across the Ottawa community
• Diverse representation of youth, families, athletes, and allies
• Meaningful dialogue centered on inclusion in sport
• New connections formed between community members and local organizations

The Pink Light event also strengthened partnerships and momentum as ASC continues to grow its national programming and community engagement work.

Gratitude to Our Community

We extend our deepest thanks to everyone who attended, volunteered, and supported this important night. Events like these are only possible because of a community that believes in equity, access, and the power of sport to bring people together.

The Pink Light was not just a screening—it was a reminder that visibility saves lives, that community builds strength, and that change truly happens one shift at a time.