May 31, 2023
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COMMONS
HOCKEY #2 – The Birth of Black Hockey
The Coloured Hockey League wasn’t just a sideshow to the main event of white hockey. And the way that league was targeted by the white establishment is reflective of the racism that Black players faced over the next century.
Arshy Mann
Host & Producer
Jordan Cornish
Producer
Noor Azrieh
Producer
Annette Ejiofor
Managing Editor, Podcasts

Of the estimated 7000 people who have played in the NHL only around 100 of them have been Black. That’s an absurdly low number compared to any other major North American sports league.

But what makes that statistic especially shocking is the fact that the modern game has its roots with Black players on Black teams.

The Coloured Hockey League wasn’t just a sideshow to the main event of white hockey. And the way that league was targeted by the white establishment is reflective of the racism that Black players faced over the next century.

 

Featured in this episode:  Bob Dawson, Darril Fosty, George Fosty

 

To learn more:

Black Ice: The Lost History of the Colored Hockey League of the Maritimes, 1895-1925 Darril Fosty & George Fosty (Author)

“1960s college hockey player recalls racism on the ice” by Bruce Deachman in The Ottawa Citizen

“The all-Black league that invented hockey as we know it” by Jasper Hutson in Defector

 

Credits: Arshy Mann (Host and Producer), Jordan Cornish (Producer), Noor Azrieh (Producer), Annette Ejiofor (Managing Editor)

 

Additional music from Audio Network

Sponsors: Canva, Douglas, Better Help, Slow Burn

 

Canadaland is turning 10! From May 24 – June 2, sign up for our highest level of ongoing support for only $10 a month. PLUS the first 100 signups will receive a FREE limited edition 10th Anniversary tote bag. Head to canadaland.com/join to become a supporter today.

 

You can listen ad-free on Amazon Music—included with Prime.

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The Coloured Hockey League wasn’t just a sideshow to the main event of white hockey. And the way that league was targeted by the white establishment is reflective of the racism that Black players faced over the next century.
May 31, 2023
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