Hockey Nova Scotia has formed a new committee following recent international and local incidents involving discrimination in hockey.
On Tuesday, the organization announced the formation of the Hockey Nova Scotia Diversity and Inclusion Task Force.
The task force is made up of individuals from under-represented communities in the game and will help inform Hockey Nova Scotia's policies and procedures to ensure rinks are safe and welcoming for everyone.
The group includes Kendrick Douglas (Nova Scotia Human Rights Commission), Levi Denny (Team Mi'kmaw Nova Scotia), Dean Smith (Hockey Nova Scotia Black Youth Ice Hockey Program), Crystal Watson (Recreation Nova Scotia), Steven GooGoo (Waycobah First Nation, band councillor), and Chuck Dauphinee (Halifax Mussels).
"At Hockey Nova Scotia, we believe that the rink should be a welcoming place for everyone," said Amy Walsh, executive director for Hockey Nova Scotia, in a press release. "We believe that racism and discrimination have no place in our game."
In the statement, Walsh said there are no easy solutions, but is no excuse for inaction.
"We are setting an example and taking action," she said. "We recognize that solutions will only be found if we work together, particularly with those who are and who have been the most affected."
Walsh also said racism and discriminatory behaviour will not be tolerated in the sport of hockey.
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