The PWHL logo. PHOTO COURTESY OF WIKIMEDIA COMMONS
Katelyn Auty
Head Copy Editor
Social Media Editor
Associate Sports Editor
Throughout the month of February, the Professional Women’s Hockey League (PWHL) is celebrating Black History Month. They have announced multiple activations with all six teams designed to highlight and celebrate Black history.
“Each team’s celebration will include unique moments, special collaborations, and engagement with youth organizations and Black-owned businesses,” shared the PWHL.
So far, the New York Sirens (vs. Montréal) and the Toronto Sceptres (vs. Minnesota) have played their Black History Month Unity Games. Below are the dates for the remaining games:
Boston Fleet (vs. Minnesota) – Feb. 16
Minnesota Frost (vs. Toronto) – Feb. 23
Montréal Victoire (vs. Toronto) – Feb. 25
Ottawa Charge (vs. New York) – Feb. 26
The PWHL has also introduced a Black History Month logo for the league, created by Montreal-based multidisciplinary artist Kezna Dalz.
“Known for her bold use of color and ability to transform difficult subjects into accessible and inviting imagery, Kezna’s unique artistic style captures the spirit of resilience, community, and joy that resonates throughout Black history and culture — on and off the ice,” the PWHL shared.
The league also released a Black History Month commemorative shirt featuring Dalz’s artwork, available on the PWHL’s official shop.
The PWHL is also contributing to Black Girl Hockey Club, a nonprofit organization founded by R. Renee Hess. As shared on their website, the organization’s goal is “To prevent exclusion in hockey based on race, gender, sexuality, or ability in the face of institutional racism, financial gatekeeping, and program access, the Black Girl Hockey Club will provide education, mentorship, scholarship opportunities, and community spaces that will give Black women access to hockey.”
The PWHL’s Black History Month efforts are part of their overarching Unity Games platform. The platform is “a series of dedicated games bringing together players, fans, and communities to celebrate, learn about, and support diverse identities and experiences,” said the PWHL.
In addition to Black History Month, the Unity Games platform includes Mental Health Awareness, Community Hockey Heroes, Pride, and Women’s Empowerment Month.