Rivermen Issue Statement on Racism, Protesting
June 5, 2020 - 11:40 am
It is time to speak up.
For nearly 40 years, the Peoria Rivermen have been embedded in the Central Illinois Community. Our community, our home, along with areas around the country have witnessed protests over the last week in response to the death of George Floyd and the racial inequalities that are still being faced in today's world.
Racism and discrimination are unacceptable. Hatred and unnecessary violence is unacceptable. Our core values as an organization stem from community and family. Those values do not come with exceptions or exclusions. As the hockey community from all over the world and all walks of life come together, the Peoria Rivermen wish to join this community in not just addressing the issue, but working toward a solution to end racism and work toward systematic change that betters the world we live in and the sport we love.
2020 has been a trialing year on a global scale. Unity is paramount. We may not be at a point where we can take masks off and come together for a hockey game, but we are at a point where we can unite to achieve racial justice and end senseless violence that results in dividing our community and destroying our city.
The Peoria Rivermen stand with those who advocate change in peaceful protest, and stand with law enforcement who join the cause.
Together, we can strive for equality.
Together, we can change the world.
