Celebrating Diversity in Hockey
Five years ago, the Hockey Diversity Alliance (HDA) began as a simple chat group among several NHL players of color, addressing ingrained issues surrounding civil rights and equality in the sport of hockey. This weekend, the HDA will be celebrating its achievements with a public event called Summer Fest at Canoe Landing Park in Toronto, welcoming over 2,200 attendees from various economic backgrounds and cultural communities. This grassroots initiative is not just about promoting hockey; it’s about fostering a greater sense of inclusion and community within the sport.
Voices of Change
“Our goal is to showcase the impactful work we’re doing for families and communities,” said Akim Aliu, a co-founder of the HDA and former player for the Calgary Flames. “We’re not here for personal gain; we are focused on uplifting the communities we serve,” he added, highlighting the organization’s commitment to diversity and grassroots engagement.
Wayne Simmonds, another founding member with 15 seasons in the NHL under his belt, expressed his excitement for the event, calling it a testament to their hard work over the past five years.
“In the beginning, we faced numerous challenges in establishing ourselves. However, we’ve made significant inroads at the grassroots level, which aligns with our original vision,” he remarked.
At Summer Fest, participants will enjoy activities such as ball hockey, food, and a carnival for children. Prominent NHL figures—including Aliu, Simmonds, and others like Nazem Kadri and Matt Dumba—along with civil rights activists Marshawn Lynch and Colin Kaepernick, are expected to attend.
Origins and Mission
The HDA was conceived in June 2020 against the backdrop of civil unrest sparked by George Floyd’s death. It transformed from an informal text conversation into a pioneering coalition, led by Aliu and Evander Kane. They emphasized the necessity of eradicating racism and promoting inclusivity within hockey. Despite announcing their independence from the NHL, they expressed hope for a productive collaboration with the league to facilitate meaningful change.
During the 2020 Stanley Cup playoffs, the HDA had a visible presence, pushing for racial justice with campaigns and messages like “We Skate For Black Lives.” Dumba notably made headlines by delivering a powerful message against racial injustice and kneeling during the national anthem while wearing HDA apparel. As the HDA gained momentum, they presented an eight-point pledge to the NHL, advocating for diversity and inclusion measures within the league. However, initial negotiations revealed a disconnect between the two organizations, leading the HDA to operate separately from the NHL.
Progress and Future Aspirations
While the alliance faced skepticism and critique early on, Aliu reflected on their progress, noting the shifts in public perception.
“There was a lot of pushback initially, but we’ve proven our commitment to the cause,”
he stated. They have successfully established youth hockey programs in Toronto and beyond, providing opportunities for underserved communities to access the sport. Aliu explained,
“Our aim is to help kids who can’t afford to play. We’ve seen significant participation across different demographics, and our programs boast an 80% retention rate.”
Kadri also shared insights on the program’s success, saying,
“We’ve seen kids connect through hockey, forming friendships and passion for the sport. That’s the core of what we do.”
Looking ahead, both Simmonds and Aliu expressed aspirations to broaden hockey’s appeal and accessibility globally, addressing the hurdles that remain, such as a decline in corporate support and funding challenges. Aliu mentioned a waiting list for their programs due to limited resources, emphasizing the need for continued financial backing.
Although there might be skepticism regarding a possible future partnership with the NHL, Aliu remains hopeful, stating,
“If we align our efforts, we can transform hockey into a welcoming space for everyone.”
As they forge their path, the HDA is determined to foster a love for hockey that transcends barriers, making the sport inclusive for all.
