Are There Any Black Hockey Players In The Nhl
Hockey is one of the most popular sports around the world, especially in Canada and the United States. However, it has been criticized for being a predominantly white sport, with few black players. This has led to questions about diversity and inclusivity in the National Hockey League (NHL). So, are there any black hockey players in the NHL? The answer is yes!
History of Black Hockey Players in the NHL
The first black hockey player to play in the NHL was Willie O'Ree, who played for the Boston Bruins in 1958. He faced discrimination and racism during his career, including being called racial slurs by fans and opponents. Despite this, he continued to play and paved the way for other black players to follow in his footsteps.
Since O'Ree, there have been several black players who have made a name for themselves in the NHL. One of the most notable players is Grant Fuhr, who was inducted into the Hockey Hall of Fame in 2003. Fuhr won five Stanley Cup championships and was a seven-time NHL All-Star.
Other notable black players in the NHL include P.K. Subban, Wayne Simmonds, and Dustin Byfuglien. These players have all had successful careers and have become role models for young black hockey players.
Current Black Hockey Players in the NHL
As of the 2021 NHL season, there are several black hockey players currently playing in the league. P.K. Subban, who currently plays for the New Jersey Devils, is one of the most well-known black players in the league. He has won two Olympic gold medals with Team Canada and was awarded the Norris Trophy in 2013 for being the NHL's best defenseman.
Other current black players in the NHL include Evander Kane, who plays for the San Jose Sharks, and Wayne Simmonds, who currently plays for the Toronto Maple Leafs. Both Kane and Simmonds have had successful careers and have been vocal about the need for more diversity in hockey.
Diversity and Inclusivity in the NHL
The NHL has made efforts to promote diversity and inclusivity in recent years. In 2020, the NHL announced the creation of the Willie O'Ree Community Hero Award, which recognizes individuals who have made a positive impact on their community through hockey.The league has also partnered with organizations like Hockey is for Everyone, which works to promote diversity and inclusivity in hockey. The NHL has hosted events like the Hockey is for Everyone Month, which includes special programming and events to celebrate diversity in hockey.
However, there is still work to be done to promote diversity in the NHL. According to a 2019 report by The Institute for Diversity and Ethics in Sport (TIDES), only 3.3% of players in the NHL were black. This highlights the need for more programs and initiatives to promote diversity and inclusivity in hockey.
Conclusion
So, are there any black hockey players in the NHL? The answer is a resounding yes. Black players like Willie O'Ree, Grant Fuhr, and P.K. Subban have paved the way for future generations of black hockey players. While there is still work to be done to promote diversity and inclusivity in the NHL, the league has made efforts to create a more welcoming environment for all players.