SEARCH
                 


MARKERZONE  |  NHL  |  NEWS

Evander Kane Makes Shocking Statement Towards Diversity Alliance


PUBLICATION
Wade Messier
July 14, 2023  (4:58 PM)
SHARE THIS STORY



Evander Kane is no stranger to controversy, especially when it comes to off-ice affairs. The veteran forward has a long history of issues off the ice, and it looks like he may have just found himself tangled in one more.

Kane Leaves HDA

Evander Kane founded the Hockey Diversity Alliance (HDA) back in 2020, along with fellow player Akim Aliu. The HDA strives to bring about equality in the game of hockey and educate fans on the harm of racism and discrimination in the game.
While Kane has done extensive work with the HDA over the past few years, it appears as though his time with the organization has come to an end.
After careful consideration, I will be stepping away from the Hockey Diversity Alliance (HDA). Diversity within the sport of hockey is something I have been passionate about since entering the NHL in 2009. Three years ago, along with fellow founders, the Hockey Diversity Alliance was formed with its primary purpose to rid the game we all love of racism and inspire a new diverse generation of players and fans.

Over the course of our respective careers, each of my fellow alliance members have endured multiple forms of racism, and it was our initial goal to shed light on these experiences. In its early days, the impact and role of the HDA was significant. Unfortunately, my greatest concerns about our organization have come to fruition and the HDA is now being led and influenced by members with individual agendas. There has also been a combative approach with other organizations and groups that have embarked on similar goals. This is a method I do not support.

As difficult and disappointing as this decision is today, I will continue to do my part in helping to grow the game of hockey for players of color. I hope to bring people together in a positive way to create a better future for the next generation of young hockey players.

Sincerely,
Evander Kane
Kane claims that the HDA is now under the influence of individuals with personal agendas, which is a serious claim. We can't help but wonder what those agendas would have to be to force Kane to step away.

Coincidence or Correlated?

About a week ago, the NHL announced its intention of creating the Player Inclusion Coalition, which would be headed by former players Anson Carter and P.K. Subban. The HDA put out a statement at the time, criticizing the NHL's decision to make their own coalition, rather than to work with the HDA.
The HDA claimed to have reached out multiple times to the NHL in an attempt to get the two parties to work together, but it was clear that the NHL had no interest in doing so. Perhaps something else happened behind the scenes that didn't sit right with Kane and pushed him towards leaving the HDA.
Whatever the case, we hope Kane and the HDA can make amends someday.

pub