Kane, Ward Announce Hockey Diversity Alliance

On Monday, Sharks forward Evander Kane announced the formation of the Hockey Diversity Alliance (HDA) along with Sharks alum Joel Ward. Kane and Akim Aliu will serve as co-heads of the organization and Ward, Trevor Daley, Matt Dumba, Wayne Simmonds and Chris Steward make up its executive committee.

Its mission is simple - to eradicate racism and intolerance in hockey.

"The reason we decided to create our group and come out now is that we couldn't just stand by and allow these things to continue to happen," Kane said in a recent conference call with the media. "Whether that's in society or in our sport, we think we can attack both at the same time by making those changes in our game.

"It's been something I've talked about for years. Something I've always tried to do is spread our game to underserved and different communities that have a diverse background. For me and everyone that's on this committee, we all have these same goals in mind."

The newly formed HDA looks to not only promote diversity in hockey at all levels but to make it a more affordable and accessible game too.

"We are hopeful that anyone who puts on skates or sits in the stands will do so without worrying about race, gender or socioeconomic background and will be able to express their culture, identity, values, and personality without fear of retribution."

To listen to today's full conference call, click here.