The Greater Toronto Hockey League is continuously working to provide a sport environment that is respectful, inclusive, and free from discrimination. As the importance of serving as a leading ally in minor hockey and youth sport, the GTHL is publicly outlining the policy, originally adopted in 2016, of the prohibition of all team names and logos that may be deemed discriminatory in nature. This policy was amended in November of 2021 and applies, but is not limited to, names and logos that:
- Have been deemed discriminatory based on race, ethnicity, national origin, or other grounds which are protected under applicable human rights legislation, or,
- are considered by the GTHL Board, on reasonable grounds, to be inappropriate.
When originally developing this policy in 2016, the GTHL consulted with the Union of Ontario Indians, Indigenous Sports and Wellness Ontario, and Chief Stacey Laforme of the Mississaugas of the Credit in regards to Indigenous-themed names and/or logos specifically. As a result, the League adopted recommendations made by such First Nations leaders and council to include, with respect to Indigenous themed names and/or logos. The 2016 policy essentially prohibited the use of these names and logos unless the Team/Club had consent from the governing or representative body of the particular Indigenous group which is so referenced or depicted. There was an exception for Teams/Clubs that were under license from the professional hockey club or any other hockey club, on the basis that that Club was using the respective name and/or logo with consent of the respective Indigenous community.
In November of 2021, the GTHL Board of Directors amended that policy. The policy now prohibits the use of any Indigenous themed names and/or logos. Clubs and Teams have until June 1, 2022 to come into compliance with the amendment.
The GTHL will continue to actively create a more welcoming and inclusive environment for all, including engaging in meaningful and purposeful conversations with community leaders. These conversations and policies will allow the GTHL to make hockey and youth sport a space for all.
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For more information, please contact:
Stephanie Coratti | Manager, Communications and Marketing
Greater Toronto Hockey League
