Hockey Diversity Alliance Celebrates Five Years of Impact

The Hockey Diversity Alliance (HDA) marked its fifth anniversary on March 15, 2024, with a community event at Canoe Landing Park in Toronto. What began as a simple conversation among NHL players of color has evolved into a significant movement aimed at promoting equality within the sport. The HDA celebrated this milestone with its Summer Fest, expecting over 2,200 attendees from various backgrounds to engage with NHL players and sports celebrities.

Former NHL player Akim Aliu, a founding member of the HDA, expressed the organization’s commitment to community growth. “None of us gain anything from this personally, financially, or in any type of way. It’s just the families and communities that continue to blossom and grow through our program,” he stated. The event featured activities such as ball hockey, food stalls, and a carnival aimed at introducing hockey to a broader audience.

The occasion also highlighted the contributions of Wayne Simmonds, another founding member, who described Summer Fest as “a wonderful culmination of the last five years of all the work that we’ve been putting in.” Simmonds noted that gaining traction was challenging initially, but they have successfully focused on grassroots efforts, which remain central to the HDA’s mission.

From a Simple Chat to a Leading Coalition

Founded in June 2020 during a pivotal moment in the U.S. regarding civil rights, the HDA emerged from a text thread among players, including Aliu and Evander Kane. Their goal was to combat racism and promote inclusivity within hockey. In their mission statement, they outlined their intent to work independently of the NHL while still hoping for collaborative efforts to foster accountability and inclusivity.

The HDA gained significant visibility during the 2020 Stanley Cup playoffs. Defenseman Matt Dumba, a founding member, made headlines by delivering a powerful speech against racial injustice while wearing an HDA sweatshirt. The NHL supported this movement by displaying “We Skate For Black Lives” messages at games.

In its early months, the HDA pushed for significant changes within the NHL, publishing an eight-point pledge that called for better representation and funding for grassroots initiatives. However, after finding common ground elusive, the HDA chose to operate independently of the NHL, which subsequently established its own Player Inclusion Coalition.

Achievements and Ongoing Challenges

Over the past five years, the HDA has made substantial strides despite facing challenges, including fluctuating corporate support. Aliu noted that initial backing has waned, leading to a waiting list for their programs. “That just means that we have to turn kids away,” he remarked, emphasizing the need for financial support to continue expanding their reach.

Despite these obstacles, the HDA reported that it currently serves approximately 1,500 young players in its initiatives, which focus on making hockey accessible to those from disadvantaged backgrounds. The programs, which run for 22 to 26 weeks, have shown promising results, with about 45 to 50 players advancing to competitive hockey.

The HDA proudly highlights its commitment to inclusivity, with programs comprising 40% girls and participation from children of various ethnic backgrounds. Aliu stated, “We just wanted to help kids that couldn’t afford to play hockey.” This goal resonates strongly within the community, as parents share success stories of their children forming friendships and developing a passion for the sport.

As the HDA looks to the future, its leaders aim to broaden the sport’s appeal and accessibility. Simmonds articulated their vision, stating, “We’re trying to take a game that we love but that’s had some problems… and expand the game.”

The HDA hopes to establish partnerships that align with its mission. While there is currently no relationship between the NHL and the HDA, Aliu remains optimistic about the potential for collaboration. “We’re tapping into a ton of different demographics. It’ll grow viewership, it’ll grow talent,” he explained.

As the HDA enters its next chapter, it continues to advocate for change while celebrating the progress made over the past five years. With community-focused initiatives at its core, the organization aims to ensure that hockey becomes a sport for everyone, breaking down financial and social barriers to entry.