Hockey Canada Creates Indigenous Advisory Circle to Combat Racism
Hockey Canada has established its first Indigenous Advisory Circle, featuring three Manitobans who will work to eliminate anti-Indigenous racism from America's northern neighbor's favorite sport.
Kevin Monkman, assistant general manager of the Waywayseecappo Wolverines, joins Birdtail Sioux Dakota Nation Chief Trechelle Bunn and Breanne Dondo of the Red River Métis Nation on the 11-person advisory panel.
Real Stories of Discrimination
Monkman's experiences reveal the harsh reality many Indigenous players face. "Getting spit on by adults at games not knowing why, becoming a coach and seeing those same things happen," he said, describing incidents that still resonate today.
The veteran hockey manager believes racism remains a persistent problem. "Has it changed? I would like to say it's changed but it hasn't, it might have gotten better but I think it's still there," Monkman stated.
Beyond Racism: Economic Barriers
The advisory circle will address multiple challenges facing Indigenous youth in hockey, including the sport's rising costs. "It's an expensive sport from when I was playing to now, with the price of my son's equipment and even booking ice," Monkman explained.
Chief Bunn, who faced racism as often the only Indigenous player on her teams, believes her lived experience will help guide the organization's efforts. "I think Hockey Canada is really leading the way in how to make Canada's game more inclusive," she said.
Commitment to Change
The advisory circle will inform Hockey Canada's policies related to Truth and Reconciliation Commission recommendations. In August 2023, Hockey Canada published its first Equity, Diversity and Inclusion Path Forward, committing to "long-term, sustainable change within hockey."
Sagkeeng First Nation Chief E.J. Fontaine, while not on the advisory circle, supports the initiative. "Communities need to know that there's serious efforts being taken to combat long outstanding racism and abuse in hockey," he said.
The new advisory circle represents a significant step toward making hockey truly accessible to all players, regardless of background or economic status.