Table Tennis North and Hockey Northwest Territories (NWT) are making waves in the world of sports by leading the charge for diversity, equity, and inclusion. Their innovative initiatives have caught the attention of Canadian Women & Sport, shining a spotlight on their efforts to create a more inclusive and welcoming environment for all athletes and participants.
In a recent feature in the Canadian Women & Sport newsletter, Table Tennis North and Hockey NWT were highlighted for their commitment to promoting diversity and inclusion in sport. One of the standout initiatives mentioned was the development of Pronoun Pins by Hockey NWT in 2022, a creative way to foster inclusivity and acceptance within the sporting community.
At both the 2023 Arctic Winter Games and Canada Winter Games, coaches from Hockey NWT proudly wore Pronoun Pins, sending a powerful message of inclusivity and respect for all individuals. Inspired by this impactful gesture, Hockey NWT used their $1,000 honorarium from the Same Game Challenge to collaborate with Table Tennis North and establish an Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion (EDI) Committee in December 2023.
Thorsten Gohl, a member of the EDI Committee, shared, “Coaches at both Hockey NWT and Table Tennis North will wear Pronoun Pins at the upcoming 2024 Arctic Winter Games. We ask them to be role models, showcase the importance of inclusion, and make everyone within the team and others welcome to the sports they represent.”
The 2024 Arctic Winter Games, set to take place in Mat-Su Borough, Alaska from March 10-16, will serve as a platform for these organizations to demonstrate their commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion in sport. Through their actions and initiatives, Table Tennis North and Hockey NWT are setting a powerful example for the sporting community, emphasizing the importance of creating a welcoming and inclusive environment for all participants.
As we look ahead to the 2024 Arctic Winter Games, let us celebrate the efforts of Table Tennis North and Hockey NWT in championing diversity and inclusion in sport. Together, we can create a more inclusive and equitable sporting landscape where everyone feels valued, respected, and empowered to participate and excel.