Enrique Hernández Faces Backlash After Refusing to Support Pride Month: “You Will Regret This Stance”
Los Angeles Dodgers utility player Enrique “Kiké” Hernández has found himself at the center of a heated controversy after refusing to publicly support Pride Month in a social media post. The decision drew swift backlash from LGBTQ+ advocates and members of the so-called “woke” community, with a threatening five-word phrase now trending across social media: “You will regret this stance.”
A Shocking Statement Sparks a Firestorm
The incident began when Hernández took to Instagram on June 1, traditionally the first day of Pride Month, and posted a short but direct message on his story:
“I won’t be posting for Pride. I respect everyone, but I stay true to my beliefs.”
The post was deleted within hours but had already been screen-captured and widely circulated online. While some saw the comment as a personal expression of faith or cultural perspective, others accused Hernández of openly disrespecting the LGBTQ+ community during a time meant to celebrate inclusion, identity, and acceptance.
His statement diverged sharply from the public stance of his team, the Dodgers, who have been vocal supporters of LGBTQ+ causes and host an annual Pride Night at Dodger Stadium.
“You Will Regret This Stance”: The Viral Backlash
Shortly after the post began making rounds, social media exploded with criticism. LGBTQ+ supporters and progressive activists condemned Hernández, accusing him of being dismissive and sending a harmful message to queer fans and players.
Among the most widespread reactions was a chilling five-word phrase that began trending under the hashtag #CancelKike:
“You will regret this stance.”
The phrase appeared in thousands of tweets and Instagram comments, and was echoed by influencers, bloggers, and activists alike. LGBTQ+ content creator Max Delacruz posted a viral video addressing the controversy:
“It’s not about forcing someone to wave a rainbow flag — it’s about basic decency. When a public figure says they refuse to even acknowledge Pride Month, they’re aligning with silence that has hurt LGBTQ+ people for decades. Kiké will regret this.”
Some online users called for boycotts of Dodgers merchandise, while others demanded that the organization make a public statement distancing itself from Hernández’s remarks.
Supporters Defend Hernández’s Right to His Beliefs
Despite the outrage, many fans and commentators defended Hernández, saying that respecting Pride Month should be voluntary — not mandatory — and that freedom of expression must include the right not to participate in popular movements.
Conservative voices, including commentators from platforms like Outkick and Daily Wire, came to his defense. One popular post read:
“The woke mob is coming for Kiké because he didn’t perform the ritual. Tolerance should be a two-way street.”
Another tweet gaining traction among conservative circles added:
“He said he respects everyone. That’s enough. He doesn’t owe anyone a rainbow-colored post.”
Dodgers Caught in the Middle
As of June 9, the Los Angeles Dodgers have not issued a specific statement about Hernández’s post, but a team spokesperson reiterated the organization’s commitment to inclusion:
“The Los Angeles Dodgers support Pride Month and stand with the LGBTQ+ community. At the same time, we respect our players’ rights to their personal views.”
This carefully worded statement attempted to balance support for LGBTQ+ fans while avoiding direct criticism of a player. The team has had previous controversies with its Pride Night event, most notably involving the Sisters of Perpetual Indulgence, which led to debates about the limits of inclusion and respect for religious sensitivities.
A Wider Debate Over Expression and Obligation
The incident with Hernández reflects a growing cultural tension: when public figures decline to participate in socially expected expressions of solidarity — whether due to religion, personal belief, or other reasons — are they being intolerant, or simply exercising their freedom?
Some believe silence or refusal to participate in movements like Pride Month is a passive form of discrimination. Others argue that compelled expression is itself problematic.
For Enrique Hernández, this moment could prove defining. So far, he has not commented further, nor has he issued an apology or clarification. Close sources report that he is “aware of the criticism” but remains “firm in his convictions.”
The Dodgers’ Pride Night is scheduled later this month. Whether Hernández participates — or stays out of the spotlight — remains to be seen. But the fallout from his brief post has already left a mark, proving once again how a single sentence on social media can ignite a nationwide debate.
And following him now, in comment sections and headlines alike, are five simple words:
“You will regret this stance.”
