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I’ve been at a loss for words at the acts of terrorism yesterday and haven’t known what to say. But I also know how important it is to speak out vehemently against what happened. I’ve learned that it can be difficult to recognize societal issues if they aren’t humanized first.
The juxtaposition of images from response to the BLM protests and what happened yesterday are the clearest and most tangible examples of the white privilege that exist. It is revolting and shakes me to my core.
I’ve also learned that Fear and Faith have something in common: they both believe in a future that has yet to happen. I refuse to buy into the Fear the terrorists tried to incite yesterday and instead choose to have Faith in a better future.
I know that hockey can be insular and many feel pressure to conform. Our sport values those who “blend in” & remain silent so as to not be distractions or seen as disrupters. I’ve wrongly subscribed to some of those beliefs myself. This is too important to ignore & remain quiet.
We have all seen the best of hockey culture: coming together in times of tragedy and the many incredible community initiatives (& so much more). It’s okay to acknowledge the worst of it, too - and to start working towards repairing it.
I hope that other coaches, managers, players, staff also feel compelled to let the world know where they stand. Not just against the terror of yesterday - but against the continued acts of violence, racism, abuse, sexism, homophobia and more.
Too many times we have heard about “being on the right side of history”. This is not about that. It’s called history because it already happened. This is about doing the right thing. I stand firmly against yesterday and vow to continue to do my part as a positive agent for change
