Predators Speaking Out Against Domestic Violence With New PSA, $500,000 Donation

The Predators are launching a domestic violence PSA to "Unsilence the Violence" that features D P.K. Subban and C Mike Fisher, according to Teresa Walker of the AP. The franchise also "pledged $500,000 over five years from its foundation to the YWCA's MEND program designed to teach men and boys how to help end violence against women and children." The Predators have "supported the MEND program since soon after its inception four years ago, including hosting program sessions" at Bridgestone Arena. With the money from the Predators and a $200,000 commitment from the All-State Foundation, the YWCA will "help fund billboards and expansion of the MEND program beyond the 10 clubs and schools in the Nashville area." Predators President & CEO Sean Henry said that the NHL is "looking at the issue of violence against women and how to get involved." But he added that he is "more focused with what the Predators are doing right now and hoping other sports franchises follow their lead." The new ad is "designed to give boys role models who speak up, whether it's a sexist joke or someone being harassed" (AP, 1/25). Henry said, "Let's face it -- this is a man's problem. Men need to step in and stop this. We need to turn those numbers around and it starts with every individual." In Nashville, Adam Vingan notes the Predators "will host MEND Night" tonight during a home game against the Blue Jackets. Discounted tickets and a donation to YWCA "will be part of the promotion" (Nashville TENNESSEAN, 1/26).