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NHL teams’ inadequate statements about George Floyd’s murder, ranked

By Brennin Weiswerda

 6 Comments

June 1, 2020 9:51 pm

On Monday, May 25, George Floyd was murdered in Minneapolis. Since then, the NHL and many of its franchises have released statements that address issues raised by Floyd’s death: racism, police brutality, and oppression.

Theses statements have run the gamut. Some are frank statements about racism in general and Floyd’s murder specifically. The Islanders–and, a day later, the Blues–thanked law enforcement. The Capitals retweeted their ownership group’s statement. As of Monday night, many teams had said nothing at all.

But there are still a lot of team statements to go through, plus many more from players. Thankfully, RMNB’s Peter Hassett has created a Statement Scorecard to evaluate them all.

A note from Peter: This is a joke. Mostly. (Kind of.) Since these statements are basically compulsory now, they invite equivocation, and that can be as funny as the story behind them is tragic. This is a non-scientific, un-peer-reviewed measurement of PR cowardice.

The majority of the statements made by NHL teams are lacking, and in some cases, inexcusably tone-deaf. Holding them accountable for their actions now can add more expectations of, and accountability for, their own actions and inaction going forward.

Teams are ranked on a scale of 1-8. Let’s take a look at the standings:

Anaheim Ducks

We support the fight against racism and hatred along with peaceful protests to bring awareness to this critical issue in our society. We urge those demonstrating to do so in a non-violent manner, so the focus can remain where it should — on equality all across America.

This statement:

Criteria Yes/No
Mentions George Floyd by name NO
Acknowledges racism and oppression YES
Condemns police brutality NO
Expresses solidarity with oppressed NO
Uses “Black Lives Matter” NO
Avoids respectability politics NO
Avoids vague language NO
Describes meaningful action NO

Final score: 1/8

Arizona Coyotes

We are all ONE PACK and our community means everything to us. We condemn racism, bigotry, violence and prejudice and embrace our responsibility to all communities of color to not stay silent. We are committed to being a part of the solution to drive positive change that is long overdue.

We can, and must do better TOGETHER.

This statement:

Criteria Yes/No
Mentions George Floyd by name NO
Acknowledges racism and oppression YES
Condemns police brutality NO
Expresses solidarity with oppressed NO
Uses “Black Lives Matter” NO
Avoids respectability politics YES
Avoids vague language NO
Describes meaningful action NO

Final score: 2/8

Boston Bruins

—wait, nope, false alarm, this is a different statement in a stark font against a contrasting background. The Bruins have not tweeted nor retweeted any statements regarding racism and the murder of George Floyd.

Updated 6/2/20.

A statement from the Boston Bruins

Black Lives Matter. Bigotry, ignorance and senseless violence in any and all forms is wrong.

We are a hockey club, and sometimes it is hard to know when, where and how to comment on issues that challenge the freedom and well-being of our community. We want to be honest and we want to be accountable and we want to be leaders.

The abhorrent murder of George Floyd and similar events cannot be tolerated. We want to be part of change and we will lead with our actions. That has always started with treating all people with dignity and respect.

This statement:

Criteria Yes/No
Mentions George Floyd by name YES
Acknowledges racism and oppression YES
Condemns police brutality NO
Expresses solidarity with oppressed NO
Uses “Black Lives Matter” YES
Avoids respectability politics YES
Avoids vague language NO
Describes meaningful action YES*

*They said Black Lives Matter, they called George Floyd by his name, and they called his death a murder. They’ve already taken concrete action. They get the point.

Final score: 5/8

Buffalo Sabres

Updated since posting, 6/1/20

A statement from Kim and Terry Pegula

We are saddened and angered by the actions of those involved in the senseless killing of George Floyd. We stand with and will continue to work with those dedicated to eradicating racism and inequality. We stand with those peacefully protesting. We stand against those who are motivated by hatred and violence. We pray for the victims and their families and ask you to join us to help foster a community that is focused on love and equality.

This statement:

Criteria Yes/No
Mentions George Floyd by name YES
Acknowledges racism and oppression YES
Condemns police brutality NO
Expresses solidarity with oppressed NO
Uses “Black Lives Matter” NO
Avoids respectability politics NO
Avoids vague language NO
Describes meaningful action NO

Final score: 2/8

Calgary Flames

Calgary Sports and Entertainment Corporation denounces racism in all forms and is committed to equality. Sports can play a role in raising awareness and helping to bring all people together in these difficult times. We stand with our fans, players, staff and their families and offer our support.

Criteria Yes/No
Mentions George Floyd by name NO
Acknowledges racism and oppression YES
Condemns police brutality NO
Expresses solidarity with oppressed NO
Uses “Black Lives Matter” NO
Avoids respectability politics NO
Avoids vague language NO
Describes meaningful action NO

Final score: 1/8

Carolina Hurricanes

Good morning, y’all! Let’s spread some positivity today 👊

This statement*:

Criteria Yes/No
Mentions George Floyd by name NO
Acknowledges racism and oppression NO
Condemns police brutality NO
Expresses solidarity with oppressed NO
Uses “Black Lives Matter” NO
Avoids respectability politics NO
Avoids vague language NO
Describes meaningful action NO

*This is only a statement if we’re being charitable. And, since we’re being charitable and spreading positivity today, we’ll give it a zero instead of a negative number.

Final score: 0/8

Updated since posting, 6/1/20

It breaks our hearts to see the acts of racism, violence and bigotry that are far too prevalent in our society today.

Today and every day we pledge to listen to black communities, and take action to support them.

We have not done enough to fight for a world where humans are treated equally.

We have a platform. One that is intended to bring our community together.

It is our turn to listen. To learn. To help.

Criteria Yes/No
Mentions George Floyd by name NO
Acknowledges racism and oppression YES
Condemns police brutality NO
Expresses solidarity with oppressed NO
Uses “Black Lives Matter” NO
Avoids respectability politics NO
Avoids vague language NO
Describes meaningful action NO

Total score: 1/8

Chicago Blackhawks

The events over the past several days have been painful for our city of Chicago and the many communities within it. There is no tolerance for racism and inequality in our city and society.

We need to educate ourselves, have more honest conversations and acknowledge that we have a lot of work to do, beginning with our own organization. Chicago has been our home since 1926, and we need to work harder to build a more equitable Chicago for all of our citizens. We owe it to ourselves, our city, all of our residents and our next generation.

Our thoughts are with the family of George Floyd and the many others who have experienced similar devastating losses. Our thoughts are also with the many hardworking people and small businesses who have suffered over the past several days. We need to work together to move forward as One Community. The Chicago Blackhawks remain committed to that.

Criteria Yes/No
Mentions George Floyd by name YES
Acknowledges racism and oppression YES
Condemns police brutality NO
Expresses solidarity with oppressed NO
Uses “Black Lives Matter” NO
Avoids respectability politics NO
Avoids vague language NO
Describes meaningful action YES

Final score: 2/8 (Minus 1 for essentially putting small businesses on the same tier as people of color: “Our thoughts are also with the many hardworking people and small businesses who have suffered over the past several days.”)

Colorado Avalanche

Our nation is in mourning and in pain as we continue to struggle with the persistent legacy of racism and racial inequality. So often, sports have played a critical role in binding and integrating societies. During some of America’s darkest days, sports have provided a source of light. From Jesse Owens to Jackie Robinson to Muhammad Ali, selfless and courageous athletes have opened our hearts, eyes and minds. Embracing diversity and accommodating difference to create a symphonic whole, marks a core virtue of any team.

It is our deepest hope that these horrific events unite us and start honest and difficult discourse on eradicating hate. Each of us has a role to play in realizing Dr. Martin Luther King’s long-deferred dream. We will continue to work with civil rights groups, community activists, government leaders, our players and staff during this uncertain time. Meanwhile, our thoughts are with the Floyd family. They are also with all Americans who feel as though their voice and dignity has been compromised by intolerance.

Kroenke Sports & Entertainment

This statement:

Criteria Yes/No
Mentions George Floyd by name NO
Acknowledges racism and oppression YES
Condemns police brutality NO
Expresses solidarity with oppressed YES
Uses “Black Lives Matter” NO
Avoids respectability politics YES
Avoids vague language NO
Describes meaningful action YES

Final score: 4/8 (Not deduction-worthy, but nonetheless worth mentioning: In their list of ground-breaking athletes of color, it would have been great if they’d have mentioned Willie O’Ree, the first person of color to play in the NHL.)

Columbus Blue Jackets

The Columbus Blue Jackets strongly condemn racism, bigotry and intolerance. We stand with those who peacefully seek an end to the injustices caused by such divisive thinking. We call upon ourselves and all members of our community to come together to promote meaningful and lasting change. This can be achieved if all of us, regardless of race, ethnicity, gender, sexual orientation or socioeconomic class, are resolved to work together with understanding, empathy, honesty and respect.

This statement:

Criteria Yes/No
Mentions George Floyd by name NO
Acknowledges racism and oppression YES
Condemns police brutality NO
Expresses solidarity with oppressed NO
Uses “Black Lives Matter” NO
Avoids respectability politics NO
Avoids vague language NO
Describes meaningful action NO

Final score: 1/8

Dallas Stars

Human rights are not optional. They need to be equal for all and they need to be protected.

Seeing the injustice directed towards the Black community, it is evident that there is a lot of work to do in this regard.

The Dallas Stars stand with those using their voice in peaceful protest, striving for equality and justice. We are committed towards building a more inclusive, just, loving and peaceful world.

Enough is enough. It is time to listen. It is time to be the change.

Help end racism. There’s no place for it.

This statement:

Criteria Yes/No
Mentions George Floyd by name NO
Acknowledges racism and oppression YES
Condemns police brutality NO
Expresses solidarity with oppressed NO
Uses “Black Lives Matter” NO
Avoids respectability politics NO
Avoids vague language NO
Describes meaningful action NO

Final score: 1/8

Detroit Red Wings

We stand for equality, justice and respect for all. We believe in diversity and inclusion, and condemn hatred, racism, prejudice and violence. Working together we can drive meaningful, lasting, positive change.

This statement:

Criteria Yes/No
Mentions George Floyd by name NO
Acknowledges racism and oppression YES
Condemns police brutality NO
Expresses solidarity with oppressed NO
Uses “Black Lives Matter” NO
Avoids respectability politics NO
Avoids vague language NO
Describes meaningful action NO

Final score: 1/8

Updated 6/3/20

The Red Wings have already proven that their statement is empty. The Ilitch Group, which owns the Red Wings, allowed the arena to be used by police for the processing of people who were arrested during protests against police brutality.

We won’t be changing the Red Wings’ score (the rubric isn’t suited to measure anything but the statements themselves), but we will be following up on this article at regular intervals to see which teams follow through on their commitments, which teams do nothing, and which teams–like the Red Wings–do worse than nothing.

Edmonton Oilers

EDMONTON, AB – Oilers Entertainment Group is resolute in condemning racism and injustice. We join those affected by senseless violence and heartily support those who protest peacefully.

We cannot ignore the issues of inequality in our society, they are real and must be confronted. In this time of hurt and pain, we cannot turn away or defer to others. We must all be a voice for change, a voice for those marginalized in our communities. Let’s stand together against racism and injustice at all levels.

Let’s all be role models. Let’s all make a difference. Together. As one.

The Oilers also retweeted the NHL’s statement–the only team to do so–as well as the statement by their defenseman Darnell Nurse.

This statement:

Criteria Yes/No
Mentions George Floyd by name NO
Acknowledges racism and oppression YES
Condemns police brutality NO
Expresses solidarity with oppressed YES
Uses “Black Lives Matter” NO
Avoids respectability politics NO
Avoids vague language NO
Describes meaningful action NO

Final score: 2/8

Florida Panthers

Our community is at our strongest when we are one.

Racism, bigotry, hatred and violence have no place in our community and together we stand in unity against injustice.

We stand in solidarity with the Black community and support efforts to end systemic racism.

Together we are committed to fostering an environment where we can come together as one.

This statement:

Criteria Yes/No
Mentions George Floyd by name NO
Acknowledges racism and oppression YES
Condemns police brutality NO
Expresses solidarity with oppressed YES
Uses “Black Lives Matter” NO
Avoids respectability politics NO
Avoids vague language NO
Describes meaningful action NO

Final score: 2/8

Los Angeles Kings

The LA Kings are united against racism and acts of hatred toward others.

Our voice is here to support the Black community and condemn these injustices.
Now is the time to raise the volume peacefully.

Enough Racism.
Enough Senseless Violence.
ENOUGH.

This statement:

Criteria Yes/No
Mentions George Floyd by name NO
Acknowledges racism and oppression YES
Condemns police brutality NO
Expresses solidarity with oppressed YES
Uses “Black Lives Matter” NO
Avoids respectability politics NO
Avoids vague language YES
Describes meaningful action NO

Final score: 3/8

Minnesota Wild

The Minnesota Wild is deeply saddened by the death of George Floyd on Monday night. Everyone in our community deserves the right to feel safe and protected. These times call for our community to come together and not be divisive. Our hearts and prayers go out to the family and friends of George Floyd.

This statement:

Criteria Yes/No
Mentions George Floyd by name YES*
Acknowledges racism and oppression NO
Condemns police brutality NO
Expresses solidarity with oppressed NO
Uses “Black Lives Matter” NO
Avoids respectability politics NO
Avoids vague language NO
Describes meaningful action NO

(*They mention George Floyd by name twice.)

Final score: 1/8

Montreal Canadiens

The Montreal Canadiens would like to express our support for the peaceful protests that have taken place following the death of George Floyd. Like everyone, we were horrified by the images of this heinous and despicable crime. Violence and racism need to stop, and as an organization we have always been committed to doing our part to share our fundamental values of inclusion and respect. We will continue being a part of this fight.

MONTREAL CANADIENS

This statement:

Criteria Yes/No
Mentions George Floyd by name YES
Acknowledges racism and oppression YES
Condemns police brutality YES*
Expresses solidarity with oppressed NO
Uses “Black Lives Matter” NO
Avoids respectability politics NO
Avoids vague language YES
Describes meaningful action NO

*They referr to Floyd’s murder as a “heinous and despicable crime.”

Final score: 4/8

Nashville Predators

A MESSAGE FROM THE NASHVILLE PREDATORS & BRIDGESTONE ARENA

We are all hurting now.

Our building serves as a place of healing and unifying our community and that is needed once again.

The past few days and far too often there are examples of extreme racism that elicit strong emotions in every community.

We need to come together as a community, to have the conversations and take the steps necessary to stop racism in every form. We all need, expect and demand equality and justice for all.

The peaceful protests that turn into violence show the pain, raw emotion and anger surrounding this plague on our city and country.

We need to channel these passions, emotions, anger and frustration into solutions that allow us to peacefully create needed action that produces an outcome for a truly equitable society. We stand ready to engage, participate and lead with others of all backgrounds and influence to identify solutions and move our community forward.

Everyone has a role to play bringing about needed changes and we look forward to joining the conversations to affect positive change.

LET US ALL STAND TOGETHER.

The team also retweeted center Kyle Turris’s statement.

This statement:

Criteria Yes/No
Mentions George Floyd by name NO
Acknowledges racism and oppression YES
Condemns police brutality NO
Expresses solidarity with oppressed NO
Uses “Black Lives Matter” NO
Avoids respectability politics YES
Avoids vague language NO
Describes meaningful action NO

*The Predators are the only team to mention the tone of the protests in a way that puts any deviation from “peaceful” in context. “The peaceful protests that turn into violence show the pain, raw emotion and anger surrounding this plague on our city and country.”

Final score: 2/8

New Jersey Devils

The racism, prejudice and injustice faced by the Black community and people of color is unacceptable and has no place in our society. We must take it upon ourselves to support one another and strive towards greater accountability.

The only way we will be able to address these important issues is to work together as a unified community and commit to the change that must happen.

We understand that the New Jersey Devils and Prudential Center are important communal assets and we are committed to using that stature to promote meaningful changes in our communities and in our country.

This statement:

Criteria Yes/No
Mentions George Floyd by name NO
Acknowledges racism and oppression YES
Condemns police brutality NO
Expresses solidarity with oppressed NO
Uses “Black Lives Matter” NO
Avoids respectability politics YES
Avoids vague language NO
Describes meaningful action NO

They get a bonus point. The Devils are one of the only teams to acknowledge the place and importance of their platform, and one of two teams, along with the Avalanche, to make their statement a pinned tweet.

Final score: 3/8

New York Islanders

We condemn racism and injustice and stand with all affected by senseless violence. We must come together, treating each other with empathy, dignity, and respect.

The New York Islanders endorse the NHL’s statement, which includes: “In our own sport we will continue to do better and work diligently toward culture change throughout hockey and endeavor to be mindful of our own shortcomings in this process.”

To the brave officers who go to work every day seeing the human being and not the color of one’s skin, we thank you for protecting us.

This gets a zero.

Actually. Strike that. Negative one.

Praising law enforcement officers for essentially being “colorblind” (which is A Bigger Problem), in the aftermath of a Black man’s senseless murder by a law enforcement officer—while three other officers stood by and watched—is unconscionable.

This statement:

Criteria Yes/No
Mentions George Floyd by name NO
Acknowledges racism and oppression NO
Condemns police brutality NO*
Expresses solidarity with oppressed NO
Uses “Black Lives Matter” NO
Avoids respectability politics NO
Avoids vague language NO
Describes meaningful action NO

*No. No, non, new, nyet, njet.

Five hours after being rightfully ratioed, the team retweeted their captain Anders Lee’s statement.

Lee’s statement is great. The team’s retweet is not enough to warrant an adjustment in their initial scoring.

Final score: -1/8

New York Rangers

Updated since posting, 6/2/20

Subject: A message from Jim Dolan

We know that some of you have asked about whether our company is going to make a public statement about the killing of George Floyd by a Minneapolis police officer. I want you to know, I realize the importance of this issue. Therefore, I want you to understand our internal position.

This a turbulent time in our country. The coronavirus and civil unrest have taken their toll on our way of life. We at Madison Square Garden stand by our values of a respectful and peaceful workplace. We always will.

As companies in the business of sports and entertainment, however, we are not any more qualified than anyone else to offer our opinion on social matters. What’s important is how we operate. Our companies are committed to upholding our values, which include creating a respectful workplace for all, and that will never change. What we say to each other matters. How we treat each other matters. And that’s what will get us through this difficult time.

We’re not going to dignify this with a score.

Updated 6/9/20

Every one of us has a role to play in creating a more just and equal society, where there is no racism, bigotry, violence or hate. We stand with all who act for positive change.

This statement:

Criteria Yes/No
Mentions George Floyd by name NO
Acknowledges racism and oppression NO
Condemns police brutality NO
Expresses solidarity with oppressed NO
Uses “Black Lives Matter” NO
Avoids respectability politics NO
Avoids vague language NO
Describes meaningful action NO

Given the lateness and weakness of the Rangers’ statement, it’s hard to determine an accurate ranking: should they get a negative score, as did the Islanders and Blues? Or should they receive a zero, like the Senators? It’s also important to note that the Rangers’ post came a full week after every team, except the Senators, who posted 6/5/20.

Since we’ve probably put more work into researching the Rangers’ post than they did writing it at this point, we’re going to stop wasting our time.

Final score: Revise and resubmit.

Ottawa Senators

Updated 6/4/20

Yesterday, we incorrectly identified the statement released by the Senators Foundation, the team’s charitable organization, as the team’s statement. The two are separate entities–and are separating farther, as the Foundation will be severing ties on July 31, 2020.

The team has yet to make a statement.

Updated 6/5/20

The Ottawa Senators hockey club strongly believes that racism and violence have no place in a civilized society.

As a professional sports organization and a major philanthropic force in the Ottawa-Gatineau community, we have a responsibility to champion the causes of inclusion and respect on and off the ice.

We support efforts to create a respectful society of equal justice.

This statement:

Criteria Yes/No
Mentions George Floyd by name NO
Acknowledges racism and oppression NO
Condemns police brutality NO
Expresses solidarity with oppressed NO
Uses “Black Lives Matter” NO
Avoids respectability politics NO
Avoids vague language NO
Describes meaningful action NO

Final score: 0/8

Philadelphia Flyers

Updated 6/2/20

We don’t have the answers, but this much we know…

We believe in racial equality without exception, and our hearts are broken.

For Philadelphia and the nation, we join the chorus calling for justice, the elimination of systemic racism, unity, and peace.

This statement:

Criteria Yes/No
Mentions George Floyd by name NO
Acknowledges racism and oppression YES
Condemns police brutality NO
Expresses solidarity with oppressed NO
Uses “Black Lives Matter” NO
Avoids respectability politics NO
Avoids vague language NO
Describes meaningful action NO

Final score: 1/8

Pittsburgh Penguins

Updated since posting, 6/2/20

This has been a horrible time for our country and our city. We all are appalled by senseless violence and share the outrage that racism and social injustice continue to permeate our society. The killing of Mr. Floyd impacted us all.

Moving forward from this moment, and after the violence that took place in our own city on Saturday, we must work together to ensure that we always treat each other with dignity, respect, and a spirit of understanding.

Let’s all be better together. Starting right now.

This statement:

Criteria Yes/No
Mentions George Floyd by name YES
Acknowledges racism and oppression YES
Condemns police brutality NO
Expresses solidarity with oppressed NO
Uses “Black Lives Matter” NO
Avoids respectability politics NO
Avoids vague language NO
Describes meaningful action NO

Final score: 2/8

San Jose Sharks

STATEMENT FROM SHARKS OWNER HASSO PLATTNER

“There is no room for racism in society. We applaud Evander for his rational and thoughtful response to the recent terrible tragedy. Events like this occur way too often. We all must find a way to do better.”

The Sharks had multiple tweets. They retweeted their players Logan Couture and Evander Kane, tweeted Kane’s interview on ESPN and article in The Athletic, and shared a brief statement from the owner. The owner’s statement is the one we’ll be looking at, and, unfortunately, ranks far worse than both their players.

(Players get letter grades. Couture and Kane both got A+.)

This statement:

Criteria Yes/No
Mentions George Floyd by name NO
Acknowledges racism and oppression YES
Condemns police brutality NO
Expresses solidarity with oppressed NO
Uses “Black Lives Matter” NO
Avoids respectability politics NO
Avoids vague language NO
Describes meaningful action NO

Final score: 1/8

St. Louis Blues

Updated 6/2/20

The St. Louis Blues and St. Louis Cardinals stand united in support of racial equality for all and with those who march peacefully to highlight and protest racism, bigotry and violence. There is no place for intolerance in our society. We also stand with those who work every day to better society and with those who honorably wear the uniform as they protect and serve all of us. We will continue to work together as One Nation and ask that all of our supporters join us in redoubling our efforts to give back and support the community we love.

Well. At least we can save time and copy/paste some of the New York Islanders’ section: Praising law enforcement officers in the aftermath of a Black man’s senseless murder by a law enforcement officer—while three other officers stood by and watched—is unconscionable.

This statement:

Criteria Yes/No
Mentions George Floyd by name NO
Acknowledges racism and oppression NO
Condemns police brutality NO*
Expresses solidarity with oppressed NO
Uses “Black Lives Matter” NO
Avoids respectability politics NO
Avoids vague language NO
Describes meaningful action NO

*No. No, non, new, nyet, njet.

Final score: -1/8

Tampa Bay Lightning

404 Error: Statement not found. Retweeting their prospect Matheiu Joseph’s statement doesn’t count. Updated 6/2/20.

Vinik Sports Group and the Tampa Bay Lightning do not condone racism or social injustice of any kind. We pride ourselves on being a family of individuals possessing great compassion for one another, the Tampa Bay community and our entire nation.

We aim to support all of our fellow citizens and bridge the gaps that exist between us with love, hope and faith. As we look forward to the process of healing, we strive to use our platforms to promote healthy discussion and action, inspiring societal change.

This statement:

Criteria Yes/No
Mentions George Floyd by name NO
Acknowledges racism and oppression YES
Condemns police brutality NO
Expresses solidarity with oppressed NO
Uses “Black Lives Matter” NO
Avoids respectability politics NO
Avoids vague language NO
Describes meaningful action NO

Final score: 1/8

Toronto Maple Leafs

All of our collective hearts were broken as we watched the senseless murder of George Floyd, as well as the pain and frustration displayed in protests that followed across the globe.

Together, we need to do more to not only speak out against racism when we witness it, but commit ourselves to anti-racist efforts in the long run to ensure its defeat once and for all. Change is needed and, as leaders in our sport and community, the Toronto Maple Leafs are deeply committed to doing our part to help eradicate all forms of bigotry and racism.

This statement:

Criteria Yes/No
Mentions George Floyd by name YES
Acknowledges racism and oppression YES*
Condemns police brutality NO
Expresses solidarity with oppressed NO
Uses “Black Lives Matter” NO
Avoids respectability politics YES**
Avoids vague language YES***
Describes meaningful action NO

Yes, the Leafs got a lot of asterisks. They also got a really good score. (Comparatively.)

*”Acknowledges racism and oppression” – Our initial, much stricter criterion was some acknowledgment of preexisting racism and oppression; George Floyd’s murder was not an isolated incident. The Leafs “once and for all” indicates racism prior to recent events.

**”Avoids respectability politics” – +1 for their description of the emotional, larger response to Floyd’s murder, as opposed to the statements that moralize about “peaceful” protests, by acknowledging “the pain and frustration displayed in protests that followed across the globe.”

***”Avoids vague language” – There is some vague language, but the specificity of “anti-racist” efforts warrants the point.

Final score: 5/8

Vancouver Canucks

Statement from Canucks Sports & Entertainment

We stand with all of you who condemn racism, hatred, bigotry and violence.

We live in one of the most diverse, multicultural places in the world, yet racism exists here too.

Be kind and be understanding. We can do better. We are all in this together. We can be a positive force for change.

We invite you to join us in sharing the #DifferentTogether pledge on social media, and encouraging others to take part.

We Are All Canucks

Second image:

#DifferentTogether Pledge

Our B.C. is inclusive and respects people of all ethnicities, cultures and faiths and their contributions to our collective well-being.

Our B.C. holds diversity as a fundamental value at the heart of success, strength and resilience of our communities, workplaces, schools, public and private institutions.

I pledge to uphold and promote these values and I commit to speaking up to oppose racism and hate in all its forms.

Criteria Yes/No
Mentions George Floyd by name NO
Acknowledges racism and oppression YES
Condemns police brutality NO
Expresses solidarity with oppressed NO
Uses “Black Lives Matter” YES
Avoids respectability politics YES
Avoids vague language NO
Describes meaningful action YES

Final score: 4/8

Vegas Golden Knights

The Vegas Golden Knights vehemently condemn racism in all its forms. Prejudice, violence and bigotry have no place in our society. We understand significant reforms are needed in order to create lasting, meaningful change that will end the systemic discrimination and injustices that have existed for far too long. We firmly stand in solidarity with all of those who peacefully seek to inspire this change.

We believe in protecting those who are unable to protect themselves. We are committed to working with all our neighbors–regardless of race, creed, ethnicity, sexual orientation, or socioeconomic class–to help unite our community and our nation together as one.

This statement:

Criteria Yes/No
Mentions George Floyd by name NO
Acknowledges racism and oppression YES
Condemns police brutality NO
Expresses solidarity with oppressed NO
Uses “Black Lives Matter” NO
Avoids respectability politics NO
Avoids vague language NO
Describes meaningful action NO

Final score: 1/8

Washington Capitals

Unfortunately, the Capitals’ retweet of MSE’s statement is the closest thing we have to a team response. They get an F for lack of eFFort.

The death of George Floyd, and many other Black Americans, is unconscionable. We believe that there needs to be action and leadership to tackle and address the social injustices and inequities in systemic racism. We stand together knowing there is more to be done.

This statement:

Criteria Yes/No
Mentions George Floyd by name YES
Acknowledges racism and oppression YES
Condemns police brutality NO
Expresses solidarity with oppressed YES
Uses “Black Lives Matter” NO
Avoids respectability politics YES
Avoids vague language NO
Describes meaningful action NO

Final score: 4/8

Winnipeg Jets

404 Error: Statement not found, just retweets of captain Blake Wheeler’s statement (but not Mark Sheifele’s) and fans’ submissions for #FotoshopPhriday.

Updated 6/2/20

As many communities across North America struggle profoundly with racial injustice, True North Sports + Entertainment lends its voice to condemn racism and violence during this difficult time. We support and stand by our captain, Blake Wheeler @BiggieFunke for his leadership and courage to express his point of view. Together, with one voice, we recognize more work needs to be done to end racism for all minority communities, and we remain committed to work closely with our community to continue to move forward.

This statement:

Criteria Yes/No
Mentions George Floyd by name NO
Acknowledges racism and oppression YES
Condemns police brutality NO
Expresses solidarity with oppressed NO*
Uses “Black Lives Matter” NO
Avoids respectability politics NO
Avoids vague language NO
Describes meaningful action NO

*It’s great that the Jets expressed support for their captain, Blake Wheeler; he’s doing and saying important things. But standing by a white person who is advocating for oppressed communities is still a step away from actually standing by oppressed communities.

Final score: 1/8

Some takeaways:

  • Only two teams mentioned Black Lives Matter (Vancouver Canucks and, later, the Boston Bruins)
  • Nearly all teams moralize or use respectability politics around the issue of “peaceful” protests (for more information on why that’s a problem, start here)
  • At the time of publishing, nine teams had yet to make a statement: The Boston Bruins, Detroit Red Wings, New York Rangers, Ottawa Senators, Philadelphia Flyers, Pittsburgh Penguins, St. Louis Blues, Tampa Bay Lightning, and Winnipeg Jets. (As of midday 6/2/20, the list was down to four: Bruins, Red Wings, Rangers, and Senators. Midday 6/3/20, it’s down to one: The New York Rangers. More on their lack of a statement is covered above.)

It’s important for the league and teams to say something. But what they’re saying–and what they’re actually going to do in the coming months and years–is more important. If a team can’t identify the actual problem, they’re going to have a heck of a time being part of the solution.

Headline photo: screenshots via Twitter