During Black History Month/African Heritage Month, Brock Sports and Recreation is publishing open letters from Black student-athletes, sharing their stories, experiences and perspectives in their own words.

To me Black History Month is a time to not only recognize but to learn the key contributions and achievements Black individuals throughout the years have accomplished. Additionally, it is about understanding the deeply rooted history of slavery and discrimination while also recognizing the ongoing challenges Black individuals face in their day-to-day lives. Black History Month encourages understanding, empathy and a commitment to fostering equity and inclusion every day, not just in February.

Reflecting on these principles has led me to consider how my own racial identity has shaped my experiences in sport. Growing up in a white-dominated sport, I am grateful that I have never experienced any direct issues because of my race. However, I have been exposed to subtle microaggressions, whether through comments, assumptions or stereotypes, that reminded me I was different. When I reached the age where I recognized that being biracial and playing hockey isn't the most ordinary thing I felt as though I had a double standard over me. Going into new teams or playing against teams, I always had a feeling of needing to prove myself more, for not only my ability as a goalie but also needing to be good cause I am racialized. Up until I was older, I remember feeling different in the locker room and struggling to fit into team culture as solely based on looks; I was an outsider. With this, I started questioning how much I belong in the sport. Moments like these made it clear that the culture of hockey still has room to grow.

My hope and dream for the next generation of Black athletes in hockey is that they never allow their differences to limit their potential or discourage them from pursuing the sport they love. Instead of feeling out of place, I hope they learn to embrace their uniqueness and use it as a source of strength, confidence and motivation. Being different should not be seen as a barrier but as something that sets them apart and allows for change within the sport. By staying true to themselves and continuing to excel, they can help redefine what hockey looks like and open doors for future generations.

- Ava Cruikshank