Hockey Canada introduces trans-friendly locker room policy
Hockey Canada has introduced a new policy which allows transgender players to choose which locker room they would like to use, as part of a legal settlement.
The new rules – which only apply to Minor League players for the time being – follow a human rights complaint from 17-year-old Jesse Thompson, who was stopped from using the boys’ locker room.
Under the new policy, coaches will undergo training for discrimination and harassment as well as on gender identity and expression.
Jesse Thompson said: “I just hope that kids can see this and know that they don’t have to hide any more.
“They can come out and play their sport that they love, and they don’t have to stop playing it just because of how they are or who they are.
“It needs to be open to everyone to play, to feel comfortable, and to not feel like they’re going to be discriminated against.
“I hope other hockey organizations around the world can see there’s a big change coming.”
“I’m just a boy. I’m just like any other kid out there growing up. I’m just a teenager.
Patrick Burke of You Can Play said: “[Thompson’s] courage will allow transgender hockey players to feel welcome and supported in their locker rooms.
“Hockey is a game meant for everyone and we are excited for the day when all LGBT athletes feel secure in their ability to live their lives openly.”
