Members of the Hockey Diversity Alliance (HDA), including Akim Aliu, express their disappointment and confusion regarding the NHL’s decision to launch an inclusion committee. They question why the league is duplicating efforts that have already been made and wonder what happened to the partnership announced three years ago with the HDA. The HDA raises concerns about the NHL’s allocation of funds to grassroots programs and the introduction of hockey to at-risk youths in underserved communities of color. Aliu suggests that the NHL’s involvement is merely a façade, and insiders within the sport understand the true intentions.
NHL’s Response and HDA’s Criticism
The HDA, along with seven current and former NHL players, support staff, and sponsors, released a scathing statement in response to the NHL’s inclusion committee. The HDA finds it laughable that the NHL is creating a “players inclusion coalition” without acknowledging the work the HDA has been doing for the past three years. The NHL’s mission statement for the coalition does not align with the HDA’s goals but instead appears to appropriate them. The NHL has not provided a comment on the HDA’s statement.
The HDA’s Progress and Expectations
The HDA highlights the progress it has made by partnering with corporate sponsors to establish ball hockey and ice hockey programs in the Toronto area. These programs offer free equipment, coaching, transportation, and meals to participants. HDA founder Nazem Kadri believes they have a strong foundation and structure in place, achieved without the league’s support. The HDA anticipates expanding these programs across Canada and into the United States. They are supporting over a thousand children in the upcoming year and operate as a multimillion-dollar organization without financial benefit.
Aliu, who was born in Nigeria and faced racism in the sport, believes the rift between the HDA and NHL stems from the HDA’s willingness to challenge the league and speak out. While disappointed in the lack of partnership, Kadri and other HDA members remain committed to advancing their cause. The HDA’s statement criticizes the NHL for prioritizing autonomy over collaboration.
Aliu concludes by expressing his hope that the inclusion coalition will do meaningful work this time around. However, he urges coalition members not to allow themselves to be used by the league for the sake of appearances. Aliu emphasizes the importance of genuine effort and action rather than empty announcements and photo ops. He warns against stalling the progress of the movement towards greater diversity and inclusion in hockey.
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