NHL/NHLPA announce ‘Next Generation of Hockey History’ campaign to celebrate Black History Month

As the calendar turns to February, the National Hockey League and National Hockey League Players’ Association have revealed plans to celebrate Black History Month.

On Thursday, the two entities announced the ‘Next Generation of Hockey History’ campaign. The goal of the project is to recognize the commitment and dedication required to become changemakers and break barriers in the game of hockey.

“Hockey history is happening right now,” Kim Davis, NHL Sr. Executive Vice President of Social Impact, Growth Initiatives and Legislative Affairs, said in a release. “When we assess the progress we’ve made, it is made visible by the diverse representation playing the game at the youth, junior and collegiate levels hockey is becoming a part of the fabric of more families and communities than ever before.”

Throughout the month, the initiative will share stories from diverse voices and emerging talent across the league’s digital and social platforms. That includes the likes of Tij Iginla and Malcom Spence, players who are projected to be first-round picks in the 2024 and 2025 NHL Drafts, respectively. Players like Cayden Lindstrom (Medicine Hat Tigers, WHL), Brent Keefer (Army West Point, NCAA) and EJ Emery (USNTDP) will also tell their stories.

“To the players, it is important that every person get to be a part of the game of hockey,” said Chris Campoli, NHLPA Divisional Player Representative. “That means continuing to embrace diversity, taking positive steps toward increased accessibility, and breaking down oppressive systems and stereotypes. We are pleased to join the NHL in celebrating Black excellence as we highlight the next generation of hockey players.”

The United By Hockey Mobile Museum is in Toronto this weekend at the NHL Fan Fair. The museum celebrates changemakers, hockey’s trailblazers and business leaders spanning various demographics. It will also be making stops in Brampton, Buffalo, Boston and at the NHL Stadium Series in East Rutherford, New Jersey later this month.

Also, to celebrate Black History Month, the NHL Shop is launching a special product collection of gear featuring active Black NHL players, including Quinton Byfield, K’Andre Miller, Darnell Nurse and more.