Aboriginal hockey families complain about racism on ice
Hockey Regina says organization has zero tolerance for racism, but cannot substantiate claims
Some First Nations families in Regina are complaining about racist taunts directed at their teenage hockey players.
“One kid will say something like, ‘go back to the res,’ or call them a ‘dirty Indian’ or something,” Amyotte told CBC News.
“It happens more often than it should.”
Aaron Desjarlais has also made two formal complaints. After striking an opposing player with a defensive hit, Desjarlais said, his son was subjected to insult, threat and even violence on the ice.
"He yelled at him and basically told him, ‘I will kill you, you stupid Indian.’"- Aaron Desjarlais
“The player got upset, skated after him, came up behind him and cross-checked him,” said Desjarlais.
“As he was skating by him, he yelled at him and basically told him, ‘I will kill you, you stupid Indian.’”
In response, Desjarlais said Hockey Regina sent him an email stating the organization could not substantiate the claim.
Hockey Regina said it gets approximately five complaints a year alleging racism and there is zero tolerance for such behaviour.
However, Amyotte said she thinks five is an underestimation, as there are some who could be unwilling to speak up.
Comments
To encourage thoughtful and respectful conversations, first and last names will appear with each submission to CBC/Radio-Canada's online communities (except in children and youth-oriented communities). Pseudonyms will no longer be permitted.
By submitting a comment, you accept that CBC has the right to reproduce and publish that comment in whole or in part, in any manner CBC chooses. Please note that CBC does not endorse the opinions expressed in comments. Comments on this story are moderated according to our Submission Guidelines. Comments are welcome while open. We reserve the right to close comments at any time.
Become a CBC Account Holder
Join the conversation Create account
Already have an account?