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How Soul on Ice transformed hockey's diversity in a decade

One film sparked a movement. From the Washington Capitals' tributes to league-wide reforms, Soul on Ice redefined hockey's future—on and off the ice.

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2 min read
The image shows a group of men playing a game of hockey on the snow, wearing helmets and holding...
The image shows a group of men playing a game of hockey on the snow, wearing helmets and holding hockey sticks. The background is dark, suggesting the game is taking place at night. The image is in black and white, giving it a classic, timeless feel.

How Soul on Ice transformed hockey's diversity in a decade

A decade ago, filmmaker Kwame Mason released Soul on Ice: Past, Present & Future, a documentary tracing Black history in hockey. The film has since left a lasting mark on the sport, pushing for greater diversity and inclusion at all levels.

Since its premiere, the documentary has been screened widely—from NHL arenas and college campuses to art houses and the NHL Network. Its influence extends beyond awareness, shaping real changes in teams, leagues, and fan engagement.

The film's U.S. debut took place in 2016, hosted by the Washington Capitals and a hockey website. Commissioner Gary Bettman, team owner Ted Leonsis, and trailblazer Willie O'Ree attended the event. Leonsis later called the documentary 'ahead of its moment,' noting its themes remain relevant today.

Mason's original goal was simple: to 'normalize the faces and voices of people of color, especially Black people, in hockey.' The documentary covers everything from the early Colored Hockey League of the Maritimes to the experiences of modern players. Its impact has been tangible. The Washington Capitals, for example, deepened ties with Fort Dupont Ice Arena, created 'Celebrating Black History' jerseys, and installed a permanent display honoring Black players.

Beyond symbols, the film has driven broader change. Kim Davis, the NHL's senior executive vice president, described Soul on Ice as a guidepost for making hockey more welcoming. Jaden Lindo, featured in the documentary, now leads the Pittsburgh Penguins' Willie O'Ree Academy—a direct reflection of the film's legacy. Over the past decade, the sport has grown more diverse in players, front offices, broadcasts, and fanbases.

The documentary's reach extends to education and visibility. It has aired on Jumbotrons during NHL games, in university lectures, and at community screenings. While exact figures on Black players in the 2022/23 season are undocumented, the shift in representation since the film's release is undeniable.

From grassroots initiatives to league-wide policies, Soul on Ice has reshaped hockey's approach to inclusion. Teams like the Capitals have embedded its lessons into their operations, while figures like Lindo and Davis continue its mission in leadership roles. The film's decade-long influence proves that storytelling can drive lasting change in sports and beyond.

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