Hockey, while not known for its diversity with NHL players and its audience, is a widely popular sport. On June 2nd 2021, Dr. Damion Thomas, the curator of sports at the National Museum of African-American History and Culture, opened an exhibit to showcase the history and contributions black people have and continue to have in the sport. The exhibit also dedicated a statue to honor the first Black player in the National Hockey League (NHL), Willie O’Ree.
