Hockey Manitoba should Support the Norman Northstars

February 1, 2024

Manitoba Hockey Association
Attention: Commissioner of Manitoba U18 AAA League

As the Member of Parliament for Churchill-Keewatinook Aski, I am writing this letter to address the unacceptable proposal to remove the Norman Northstars out of the AAA league.

To be clear, the Norman Northstars are not just a Thompson specific team – for decades they have provided an important program to many players in Thompson and surrounding Indigenous and Northern communities. This recent proposal is not sitting of a province wide hockey league that ought to support youth and create opportunities for youth across Manitoba.

Hockey Manitoba should take seriously the need to be inclusive of Indigenous and Northern youth and communities and support the successful community-based work of the Norman Northstars. Whether it’s in terms of your responsibilities with respect to the Truth and Reconciliation recommendations or the need to ensure that organizations like yours are inclusive and fair, on behalf of our North I would ask that you reconsider your decision and continue to ensure the Norman Northstars remains in the AAA League.

Our message to you from Northern Manitoba is clear. Drop this ridiculous proposal and support our youth. Support the Norman Northstars.