Hockey has long been considered Canada’s national sport, deeply ingrained in the country’s cultural fabric. However, the history and continued existence of the sport have been marred by the exclusion of Indigenous peoples and the erasure of their contributions. There has been a growing call to ‘decolonize’ hockey in recent years, addressing the systemic racism that plagues the sport and promoting inclusivity for Indigenous players and fans. The movement, spearheaded by both Indigenous and settler hockey players and fans, seeks to help reclaim Indigenous identity in hockey and foster an environment where everyone feels welcome.
Addressing Racism in Hockey
Racism in hockey has been pervasive throughout the sport’s history. Indigenous players have often faced discrimination on and off the ice, with instances of racial slurs and harmful stereotypes being perpetuated. Furthermore, the lack of representation of Indigenous players in professional leagues contributes to the marginalization of their communities. The decolonization movement aims to create a more inclusive space for Indigenous athletes by addressing these issues.
Reclaiming Indigenous Contributions to Hockey
Indigenous communities have contributed significantly to the development and popularization of hockey. Early versions of the game were played by the Mi’kmaq and other First Nations in Canada long before European settlers arrived. However, the sport’s history has been predominantly shaped by colonial narratives that exclude Indigenous voices. To decolonize hockey, it is essential to acknowledge and celebrate these early contributions.
Promoting Cultural Awareness and Anti-Racist Education in Hockey
Education is a crucial element in the decolonization process. By raising awareness about the Indigenous roots of hockey and their ongoing contributions to the sport, the movement hopes to challenge the dominant colonial narrative. This can be achieved through educational initiatives, such as workshops and seminars, aimed at increasing knowledge and understanding of Indigenous cultures, histories, and experiences in hockey.
Supporting Indigenous Representation and Leadership in Hockey
The decolonization movement also emphasizes the importance of increasing Indigenous representation at all levels of the sport, from players and coaches to executives and decision-makers. By promoting Indigenous voices in positions of leadership, the sport can better address the needs and concerns of Indigenous communities.
Creating Safe and Inclusive Spaces in Hockey and all Sports
Decolonizing hockey involves creating environments where Indigenous players and fans feel safe and welcome. This includes addressing instances of racism, promoting cultural understanding, and celebrating the diversity of Indigenous cultures within the hockey community. Additionally, the movement aims to ensure that arenas and other hockey-related spaces are inclusive and respectful of Indigenous traditions and customs.
Decolonize Hockey
The decolonization of hockey is necessary to foster inclusivity and celebrate the diverse histories and cultures that have shaped the sport. By addressing systemic racism, reclaiming Indigenous contributions, and promoting education and representation, the movement seeks to create a more equitable and inclusive future for hockey in Canada and beyond.
Sources:
- Forsyth, J., & Wamsley, K. (2006). “Native to Native… We’ll Reciprocate’: An Examination of the Canadian Government’s Sport Relationship with Indigenous People.” International Journal of Canadian Studies, 33, 77-94.
- Kidd, B. (2016). “Decolonizing Sport History in Canada: Indigenous Peoples, Sport, and the Politics of Recognition.” Sport History Review, 47(2), 144-162. doi: 10.1123/shr.2015-0006
- Aboriginal Sport Circle. (n.d.). “About Us.” Retrieved from https://aboriginalsportcircle.ca/en/about
- Robidoux, M. (2012). “Playing for Change: Reimagining Sport and the Canadian Indigenous Body.” In J. Forsyth & A. Giles (Eds.), Aboriginal Peoples and Sport in Canada: Historical Foundations and Contemporary Issues (pp. 207-230). UBC Press.
- Mason, C., & Koehli, J. (2016). “We Matter: Aboriginal Youth in Canada’s Colonial Context and the Potential Role of Sport for Social Change.” In R. Spaaij, J. Magee, & R. Jeanes (Eds.), Sport and Social Exclusion in Global Society (pp. 87-102). Routledge.
- Paraschak, V. (2013). “Sport and Reconciliation: Exploring Contributions from Canadian Sport Stories.” Journal of Sport and Social Issues, 37(4), 346-366. doi: 10.1177/0193723512466281