The comprehensive report, which was presented to the Board of Governors earlier today, is a first of its kind for the League. It provides an overview of the work accomplished over the past two years at the League-level, as well as progress by all 32 Clubs at the local level. The various efforts driven by Clubs include mentorship and scholarship programs; investments in community initiatives that foster greater access to sport; and partnerships with local BIPOC organizations and businesses. The report provides qualitative and quantitative data, setting a benchmark for continued growth.
"During the past few years, the NHL and its 32 Clubs have accelerated efforts to grow our sport, particularly with underrepresented audiences," NHL Commissioner Gary Bettman said. "The information in this report seeks to both detail the work we have done and establish metrics that will enable us to chart our progress. Transparency is essential so that we can hold ourselves accountable and for all stakeholders - including NHL Players, partners, fans and future fans -- to understand the breadth and depth of our work to create a safer, more welcoming, more diverse game and business."
For the first time, the League completed a detailed workforce demographic study, which is published in the report. The study includes data collected via an anonymous survey of League and Club employees, allowing every individual to self-identify across dimensions of racial demographics, gender identity, and sexual orientation. This approach to data collection is part of a growing culture of accountability, transparency, and commitment to meaningful progress across the League.
"The greatness of the NHL is a result of the passion and skill of its employees across all disciplines, and we are excited to now have a comprehensive understanding of how our employees view themselves," said Kim Davis, NHL SEVP of Social Impact, Growth Initiatives and Legislative Affairs. "From here, we will continue to add diverse talent that brings with them the competencies and creativity this sport needs for future growth."
The report highlights the League's efforts organized using a '7 Dimensions' framework: leadership, education, employment, marketing, partnerships, participation, and community engagement. It focuses on several areas of progress including combatting racism and discrimination through education and accountability; attracting new talent and empowering game-changers; diversifying the youth hockey ecosystem; and elevating community engagement activity to support underrepresented groups in the game.
The full report is available online at
NHL.com/DiversityReport
.
