NHL: Standing with survivors

Content warning: The following contains discussion of sexual violence. As always, support survivors and take care.

The latest: In an emotional interview with TSN on Wednesday, Beach (a 2008 first-round draft pick) courageously came forward as the John Doe who filed a lawsuit after being sexually assaulted by former Chicago video coach Brad Aldrich.

• During the interview, Beach said, “I want everybody to know, in the sports world and the world, that you’re not alone.” So powerful.

The response: In the wake of Wednesday’s interview, Chicago released a statement apologizing to Beach, the NHL Players’ Association (PA) did the same and the NHL sent a memo to all 32 clubs about “fostering a safe and inclusive culture.”

• This is all coming a little (read: 11 years) too late...and Chicago’s response, in particular, feels disingenuous. In his first statement since the interview, Beach said, “my battle is really just beginning as the Blackhawks continue to attempt to destroy my case in court.”

• Elsewhere, Florida Panthers and former Chicago head coach Joel Quenneville (who failed to act on the 2010 allegations) resigned last night, a day after coaching his team despite outrage from fans.

What’s next: As many journalists have pointed out, Chicago chose (and is still choosing) to protect a video coach instead of their own player, a survivor. Those in power continually protect their own and perpetuate this broken system. It’s way past time for accountability.