Email
Print
Hockey PEI Statement - Letter to our Hockey PEI Players
2022-01-12Dear Hockey PEI Players,
The last few weeks have been challenging for all of you as we faced some difficult realities in our Hockey community, and we have learned that change is needed in our organization to move forward in a more inclusive way.
Hockey PEI is here to support you, we are all in this together. In times of difficulty there is an opportunity to reflect on the changes that need to be made and that is what we will do.
Recent events have brought to light the issue of racism and aggression in the game. Hockey PEI wants to let you know there is zero tolerance for racism. We also know more than words are needed to address the recent incidents and to move forward in a more inclusive and safe manner. This takes action, and we know there is work to do. Hockey PEI is reviewing rules and guidelines to ensure our volunteers, players and families feel safe and accepted.
We take responsibility for the misapplication of a rule issued on January 5 that should have been used to the full extent. Keegan Mitchell defended his teammate and was suspended indefinitely for violating Hockey PEI’s social media policy. Hockey PEI is repealing this suspension effective immediately. As an organization and as individuals, we need to take a stand against racism and help make the hockey environment a safe and welcoming place for everyone. We commend Keegan for speaking up for what was right and shining a spotlight on our missteps around this tragic incident.
We appreciate that players want to stand up for each other and we support this camaraderie while it is being done in a respectful way. Players, coaches, parents, and volunteers must all know that racism and hate are never tolerated and know you can speak up if you witness something that does not align with the values of Hockey PEI.
Players have a role in leading by example for fellow teammates and athletes on opposing teams. Let’s learn from this negative incident and choose to be better going forward for our team and our community.
We can and will do better.
Sincerely,
Hockey PEI Board of Directors
The last few weeks have been challenging for all of you as we faced some difficult realities in our Hockey community, and we have learned that change is needed in our organization to move forward in a more inclusive way.
Hockey PEI is here to support you, we are all in this together. In times of difficulty there is an opportunity to reflect on the changes that need to be made and that is what we will do.
Recent events have brought to light the issue of racism and aggression in the game. Hockey PEI wants to let you know there is zero tolerance for racism. We also know more than words are needed to address the recent incidents and to move forward in a more inclusive and safe manner. This takes action, and we know there is work to do. Hockey PEI is reviewing rules and guidelines to ensure our volunteers, players and families feel safe and accepted.
We take responsibility for the misapplication of a rule issued on January 5 that should have been used to the full extent. Keegan Mitchell defended his teammate and was suspended indefinitely for violating Hockey PEI’s social media policy. Hockey PEI is repealing this suspension effective immediately. As an organization and as individuals, we need to take a stand against racism and help make the hockey environment a safe and welcoming place for everyone. We commend Keegan for speaking up for what was right and shining a spotlight on our missteps around this tragic incident.
We appreciate that players want to stand up for each other and we support this camaraderie while it is being done in a respectful way. Players, coaches, parents, and volunteers must all know that racism and hate are never tolerated and know you can speak up if you witness something that does not align with the values of Hockey PEI.
Players have a role in leading by example for fellow teammates and athletes on opposing teams. Let’s learn from this negative incident and choose to be better going forward for our team and our community.
We can and will do better.
Sincerely,
Hockey PEI Board of Directors