Patrice Bergeron says the death of George Floyd has opened his eyes to the reality of racial injustice.
The Boston Bruins centre put out a statement Wednesday addressing Floyd’s death, joining the long list of NHLers who’ve since decided to use their platform to speak up against systemic racism.
“As hockey players, we have a tendency to do our business while staying quiet, without wanting to make too much noise,” Bergeron wrote.
“But surrounding the murder of George Floyd and the protests that followed, it made me realize that by not speaking up on the matter, and not using my voice as a professional athlete, it’s in fact allowing racism to fester and continue. Silence is not an option for me anymore.”
“I realize that I will never truly understand the fear, pain and suffering the Black community has endured. As a white man I have always tried to live by respect and equality, but I also acknowledge my privileges,” Bergeron continued. “I am disappointed in myself that it took this long for me to truly open my eyes. Seeing all this pain truly breaks my heart and forces me to seek answers.
“Today and going forward I want to listen, educate myself and stand up for the Black community. We cannot change the past but we can certainly change the future. It is time to truly acknowledge this cry for help.”
In the days since Floyd’s death on May 25, protestors around the world have taken to the streets to protest racial injustice, while the sports world has seen a number of athletes speak out.
Bergeron said in his statement that his family would also be donating $25,000 to the Boston Branch of the NAACP and $25,000 to the Centre Multiethnique de Quebec.
“It needs to be more than a simple Instagram post,” Bergeron wrote. “Let’s take real actions. With an open heart and compassion, I am determined to be an ally, continue to grow myself, and raise my children to be anti-racist.
“I will not be quiet anymore.”
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