News release

Province Celebrates Diversity Through Sport with Jamaican Hockey Team

Communities, Culture and Heritage (Jan. 2011 - Aug. 2021)

Hockey players from the U20 Jamaican Olympic Ice Hockey Federation will face off against Nova Scotia players to celebrate diversity through sport.

The event will be held on Saturday and Sunday, May 13 and 14, at the Dartmouth Sportsplex.

“Through companionship and healthy competition, sports bring our communities together and teach us valuable qualities,” said Tony Ince, Minister of Communities, Culture and Heritage. “I look forward to welcoming players from the U20 Jamaican Olympic Ice Hockey Federation, and I couldn’t be more proud to support an event that brings more inclusion and diversity to our communities.”

Government has provided $50,000 from the Nova Scotia 150 Forward Fund to support the event.

The May 13 game will see Jamaica U20 take on a Nova Scotia team of prominent players from diverse backgrounds, including former professional players and community leaders. On May 14, the Jamaican team returns to face off against Nova Scotia’s U20 all-star team, made up of players from Major Junior, Junior A and Major Midget leagues.

“This event aims to share Canada's favourite pastime with historically marginalized communities and newcomers,” said Kendrick Douglas, chairperson, Jamaican Olympic Ice Hockey and Nova Scotia Organizing Committee. “More broadly, these games strive to promote the value and necessity of diversity, inclusiveness, equality and fairness in our society.”

Admission to the games is $5 at the door or a donation. For more information, visit https://www.facebook.com/notes/office-of-african-nova-scotian-affairs/jamaica-vs-nova-scotia-hockey-game/1381457178577850/.

The Nova Scotia 150 Forward Fund provides funding for organizations to plan activities that help Nova Scotians celebrate Canada 150, such as celebrating cultural identity and ethnic diversity.

Promoting diversity and inclusion in communities is a vital part of the Nova Scotia's Culture Action Plan. You can read the full plan at https://novascotia.ca/culture.