The Canucks have had theme nights to recognize the cultural origins of their fansGETTY IMAGES
The diversity of the Canucks' fanbase "stands out," and the variety of cultural, ethnic and racial backgrounds supporting them is something the team "says it's proud about," according to Patrick Johnston of the Vancouver PROVIDENCE. In recent seasons, the Canucks have "added theme nights to recognize the many cultural origins of their fans." But while they have marched in parades, they also "know they can do much more." Canucks VP/Communications & Community Partnerships Chris Brumwell said, "Combating racism, promoting justice and equality. How can we use the Canucks' reach to be a positive influence?" The Canucks "have long-standing partnerships with First Nations communities and the team has hosted First Nations nights as well." They also have hosted "Pride Night and marched in the Pride parade." But the Canucks' staff roster reveals that there is "just a handful of people in either hockey operations or business operations who aren't white." Although COVID-19 has forced the Canucks to reduce staff, Brumwell said that the long-term goal is "to improve the diversity of the team's staff." He added that team is "looking closely at the league's partnership and initiatives" with the Hockey Diversity Alliance (Vancouver PROVINCE, 9/12).
LEADING BY EXAMPLE: In Phoenix, Richard Morin wrote with racial awareness at the forefront of the conversation in sports, the Coyotes "see themselves well-positioned to be industry leaders in areas of inclusion and diversity." Coyotes President & CEO Xavier Gutierrez, who became the NHL's first Latino team president in June, is "expected to serve on at least two newly formed groups dedicated to inclusion in hockey and sports in general." Both the NHL's Executive Inclusion Council and the Pro Sports Assembly are "dedicated to identifying and combating racial injustice that exists in sports culture." Gutierrez also said that the Hockey Diversity Alliance has "special plans for Hispanic Heritage Month," which begins today and ends Oct. 15. He added that the the team also is "forming its own advisory council and creating a speaker series that highlights female and diverse leaders who are 'champions of impact and social change in this market'" (ARIZONA REPUBLIC, 9/12).
