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CHARGE VS. FLEET
SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 28
2:00 PM ET

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The Ottawa Charge Black History Celebration Unity Game is designed to honor Black history, culture, and the ongoing contributions of Black leaders, athletes, artists, and community-builders within hockey and across sport. Through community partnership, storytelling, and in-arena recognition, the game creates space for reflection, celebration, and meaningful engagement with Ottawa’s Black communities. All programming is developed in collaboration with Black-led organizations to ensure authenticity, respect, and cultural integrity.

In-Arena Programming

Anthem Performance
The National Anthem will be performed by Kellylee Evans, an award-winning Canadian jazz and soul artist known for her powerful voice, emotional depth, and ability to connect music with storytelling. Her performance brings both cultural significance and artistry to this night of celebration.

Ceremonial Puck Drop
The ceremonial puck drop will feature two young athletes from the African Hockey Association (AHA), highlighting the organization’s impact in creating access and opportunity within the sport.
Dalia Gebremeskel (11)
Dalia was introduced to hockey through the African Hockey Association and has been playing for approximately 1.5 years. She also attended the Ottawa Charge Summer Camp this past year, continuing to build her skills and connection to the game.
Sébastien Sossoyan (10)
Sébastien began playing hockey when the African Hockey Association first launched and has been part of the program for five years. After spending one season with the Cumberland Dukes, he returned to AHA and now volunteers as a youth coach, giving back to younger players in the program.

Featured Community Organizations

  • African Hockey Association (AHA)

    The African Hockey Association is a community-based hockey program under the African Canadian Association of Ottawa (ACAO) dedicated to increasing access and opportunity within the sport. Founded to address the financial and systemic barriers that often place hockey out of reach, AHA creates inclusive pathways for Black youth and other visible minorities to participate, develop, and feel a sense of belonging in the game. Through community leadership, volunteer support, and a commitment to equity, AHA works to ensure hockey can be a space where young athletes are welcomed, supported, and able to thrive.

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  • Women of Colour Hockey Collective (WCHC)

    The Women of Colour Hockey Collective is a Canadian-based non-profit organization focused on empowering women and girls of colour within hockey through access, leadership development, and community-building. Through scholarships, mentorship, equipment support, and grassroots programming, WCHC addresses the barriers that limit participation while creating spaces where players feel seen, valued, and supported. Rooted in Canada and connected to a broader global community, WCHC works to build a more inclusive and representative hockey ecosystem at every level of the game.

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  • uOttawa Black Student-Athletes Advocacy Council (BSAAC)

    The Black Student-Athletes Advocacy Council at the University of Ottawa is a student-athlete–led organization dedicated to advancing equity, representation, and anti-racism within varsity athletics. Formed in response to the need for greater accountability and inclusion, the Council works collaboratively with university leadership to advocate for systemic change, improved student-athlete experiences, and sustainable equity-focused initiatives. Through leadership development, advocacy, and institutional partnership, the BSAAC plays a vital role in shaping a more inclusive athletic environment for current and future Black student-athletes.

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