Julian McKenzie's 'Black Aces' uncovers untold stories of black NHL trailblazers, racism struggles and game-changing legacy

Sports writer Julian McKenzie is shedding light on the hidden history of hockey with his first book, Black Aces: Essential Stories from Hockey’s Black Trailblazers. The book tells the story of the Black men and women who have helped shape the history of professional hockey, using a combination of historical research and interviews to tell the story of their successes and struggles.
The book profiles players such as Jarome Iginla, Grant Fuhr, Sarah Nurse, and P.K. Subban, and takes a look at how Black players have helped shape the history of hockey despite the odds. It shows the challenges, successes, and game-changing legacies of Black players in hockey.

Herb Carnegie, Jarome Iginla, Grant Fuhr and other Black NHL players at forefront of compelling book 'Black Aces' based on racism and hockey

Among the most compelling chapters of the book that most are talking about is the one that focuses on Herb Carnegie, known as the greatest Black player never to have played in the NHL. Herb Carnegie had played semi-professional hockey, including on the first all-Black line of hockey forwards, alongside his brother and Manny McIntyre, a moment of history that McKenzie describes as both historic and bittersweet. The author also describes Herb Carnegie’s poignant memory of being passed over for an NHL chance in the 1930s, when Conn Smythe of the Toronto Maple Leafs reportedly said he would sign Carnegie if he could be made white.
However, the book is more than a record of injustices. Julian McKenzie traces the history of Black players in hockey back to local leagues and grassroots culture, demonstrating how hockey had a place in Black culture long before diversity became a concern of professional leagues.
As an NHL writer for The Athletic, Julian McKenzie recognizes the project as both historical documentation and personal achievement. Born and raised in Montreal, McKenzie has always been driven to share significant sports stories, which he has finally accomplished through the publication of his book.
In essence, McKenzie’s book, Black Aces, asserts that the identity of hockey has always been more diverse than history suggests. The book reshapes the history of hockey while emphasizing the importance of inclusion in shaping its future.


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