NHL wants to speed efforts to expand diversity

The Boston Bruins at work against the New Jersey Devils.

Edited from a New England Council (newenglandcouncil.com) report

“The National Hockey League has released its Diversity and Inclusion Report, which presents the NHL’s efforts to accelerate diversity and inclusion in the sport of hockey. This is an ongoing effort by the league to prioritize inclusion and to grow a stronger hockey community.

“By focusing on seven dimensions, including goals such as leadership, community engagement, partnerships and more, the NHL organized the report to present quantitative and qualitative progress the league has made over the last two years. The report found that 22 teams launched or are in the process of launching mentorship programs to develop BIPOC and female talent to create a pipeline of opportunities for candidates in front office and operation positions. BIPOC”: stands for Black, Indigenous, People of Color.

“The NHL emphasized its need to increase the exposure of the sport to women and BIPOC communities–in partnership with the NHL Player’s Association Industry Growth Fund, the NHL has distributed more than $135 million in funds in the US and Canada to fund programs to reach these audiences. Stepping outside the rink, the report noted a committed effort by the League to support community engagement both in the sport and local communities. To reach this goal the NHL has advocated for various legislation promoting social equality, including the Willie O’Ree Congressional Gold Medal Act to honor O’Ree’s contributions to the sport as the first NHL Black player. The report highlighted the accomplishments of the League but also acknowledged that there is still room for improvement. The NHL expressed its need to address issues of prejudice and discrimination by using the tools of education and accountability. To continue the conversation about social justice all 32 teams will participate in a program to which will address issues such as discrimination, harassment, and abuse. The NHL hotline was released to give both players and employees a way to report unethical conduct.

“Commissioner Gary Bettman said, ‘Our belief is stronger than ever that hockey has a powerful platform to build character, teach life skills, and support our society and our communities. We’re focused on ensuring the game and its related environments are safe, respectful, and inclusive. Diverse representation within inclusive environments is proven to advance innovation, creativity, and decision-making – all of which are critically important to the growth of the sport and our business.”’