In 1958, Willie O’Ree was called up from the minors to play for the Boston Bruins, becoming the first black player in @NHL history. Today, the House of Representatives passed our bill to honor him with the Congressional Gold Medal.
Jan 19, 2022 · 7:14 PM UTC
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Despite the challenges Willie faced on and off the ice, he spent more than 24 seasons as a professional hockey player. Due to his incredible achievements, he was inducted into the Hockey Hall of Fame in November 2018. Photo credit @NHL.
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After his career on the ice, he continued his work to grow the game. Willie became the NHL’s Diversity Ambassador, where he established the Hockey Is For Everyone initiative. In partnership with this program, the @MNWild has been able to introduce 100 kids to the game.
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I was proud to co-lead this legislation to honor Willie with the Congressional Gold Medal, and finally give him the place in history he deserves. youtube.com/mIWBjfTJa90
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