Misogyny, racism, exclusion and bullying: all problems in hockey culture in Canada

A study by the Angus Reid Institute has examined a variety of issues ingrained in hockey culture in Canada. The study found that at least half of those who played youth hockey in Canada say misogyny, racism, exclusion and bullying are problems in the culture.

Regarding the issue of misogyny, 52% of respondents claimed that the way young hockey players behave toward young girls and women is a problem that is hurting the game.

“Canadians who have experience around the game are attuned to this issue and identify disrespect or misogyny towards women as a problem. Notably, this sentiment is held by more than half (56%) of former youth players or coaches, and by 63% among those who did not play but have had a person close to them who did — either a close friend, sibling or partner.”

Hockey Canada is currently embroiled in scandal over the organization’s response to multiple rape allegations.

Half of those who played youth hockey say misogyny, racism, inclusion and bullying are problems in the culturehttps://t.co/djKMOwcKiP pic.twitter.com/Eesn51W8He
— Angus Reid Institute (@angusreidorg) May 5, 2021

Misogyny, racism, inclusion and bullying: all problems in hockey culture in Canada

On the issue of racism, 50% of respondents say it’s a problem that is hurting the game.

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Game Misconduct: Canadians may love their hockey, but they also see serious problems with its culturehttps://t.co/djKMOwcKiP pic.twitter.com/qfjbzIFGpi
— Angus Reid Institute (@angusreidorg) May 5, 2021

Finally, 58% of respondents also agree that hockey players bullying other players or kids off the ice is a problem.

Misogyny, racism, inclusion and bullying: all problems in hockey culture in Canada

While one-third of Canadians (34%) concerned about these issues, notably racism and exclusion, believe that progress has been made in their respective communities, most (66%) believe that the situation is the same or getting worse, and that more work needs to be done.

34% of Canadians who are concerned about hockey and racism/exclusion say the community is making progress in addressing it, while 66% say there's work to be done: https://t.co/8CCMAq6rtE #HockeyIsForEveryone pic.twitter.com/X74MVFyVJf
— Angus Reid Institute (@angusreidorg) May 5, 2021

Misogyny, racism, inclusion and bullying: all problems in hockey culture in Canada

This article was originally published on May 6, 2021 and updated on Dec. 19, 2022.

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