Alleged racist hockey brawl in Sagkeeng under investigation

A U18 minor hockey game in Sagkeeng Nov. 10 where the La Broquerie Habs were the visitors is under investigation after a fight between fans.

A statement published to the Sagkeeng First Nation’s website and supported by the Assembly of Manitoba Chiefs (AMC) claims several La Broquerie fans were drunk and disrupted the game by yelling profanities. The statement added the conflict escalated to a physical fight where racist slurs were used.

The La Broquerie Habs minor hockey association responded on their website Nov. 18, noting the actions have no place in hockey and were in “direct opposition to our core values.”

“This behaviour, if confirmed, is wholly unacceptable and does not reflect the values of our organization or the La Broquerie community,” the statement reads.

“We are fully cooperating with local law authorities, Hockey Manitoba, Eastman Minor Hockey and other relevant parties in their investigation of this matter.”

The Habs noted because the matter is under investigation, they will not be commenting on any details.

Sagkeeng Ogimaakaan (Chief) E.J. Fontaine called on Hockey Manitoba to create a visitation and conduct agreement for any team playing in a First Nations community.

“Implementing such a policy would be a significant step forward on the path of reconciliation,” he said.

“It would hold visitors accountable to the rules of the Nation and provide disciplinary action should those rules be broken, as was experienced earlier this month.”

The statement from The Habs, which was published after Sagkeeng’s statement, echoed Fontaine’s request.

“La Broquerie Minor Hockey is committed to working with Hockey Manitoba, Sagkeeng Anicinabe Nation, and other stakeholders to ensure the implementation of measures that promote mutual respect, cultural understanding, and safe environments in youth sports,” it reads.

“We support the development of a visitation and conduct agreement, as proposed by Sagkeeng leadership, to uphold these values in all interactions moving forward.”

The Sagkeeng Anicinabe Nation maintains a strict alcohol ban.

“It is essential that anyone visiting any First Nation in Manitoba honour that First Nations’ rules and bylaws.” AMC Acting Grand Chief Betsy Kennedy said in the statement.

“To disregard the laws of this Nation demonstrates a profound lack of respect for the health, safety, and dignity of Sagkeeng Anicinabe citizens. What occurred in Sagkeeng is the result of ongoing systemic racism that continues to go unaddressed by Hockey Manitoba.”

No charges were filed against anyone involved in the immediate aftermath of the fight, which injured a 15-year-old boy.