NHL veteran says he experiences racism in hockey, and he might kneel during the anthem

joel ward racism national anthem

San Jose Sharks forward Joel Ward reveals that he has been the victim of racism in hockey. He says he experiences racism daily, and is considering to kneel during the national anthem.

In an interview with Paul Gackle of the Mercury News, Ward talks about the racism he deals with.

I’ve dealt with it a lot. I’ve had a few things that have happened to me that you could say are not the norm. I’ve been singled out at different events. I’ve been pulled over. I’ve dealt with racism right to my face.
It’s just been part of life that you always have to deal with, so when people get into Kaepernick and some of these other guys, saying that they’re disrespecting the flag, it’s not about just that. It’s about creating awareness about what people, like myself, go through on a day-to-day basis, whether it’s going to the mall or whatever.

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When asked if he would kneel during the national anthem at an upcoming Sharks game, Ward said:

It’s definitely something I wouldn’t cross out. I’ve experienced a lot of racism myself in hockey and on a day-to-day occurrence. I haven’t really sat down to think about it too much yet, but I definitely wouldn’t say no to it.