The PWHL Vancouver announced its “unity games and theme nights” on Tuesday (Nov. 4), but one night was noticeably missing.
“Unity Games return to the PWHL this season with the continued goal of celebrating diverse cultures and communities, ensuring PWHL games remain welcoming and inclusive spaces for all,” read a PWHL Vancouver press release on Tuesday.
The Unity Games included Lunar New Year celebrations on Jan. 22, First Nations celebrations on March 10, South Asian heritage celebrations on April 21, and Pride Night on April 25.
“Each Unity Game will feature performances, themed in-game entertainment, and local community partnerships that bring the celebration to life. In addition, special artist collaborations and limited-edition merchandise will be unveiled throughout the season with proceeds supporting various non-profits,” noted the release.
Notably missing is a Black History Celebration Night, which all other seven teams have as part of the Unity Game Series.
Many fans voiced their concerns online about this, including Cameron Johnson, a sports commentator and PWHL Vancouver fan, who shared his concerns in a video posted to his Instagram.
“We have the premier Black star of women’s hockey on our team, and to be the only team that does not have one, that’s the part that really gets me, is the fact that we’re the only team that doesn’t have one. It is a horrible look,” Johnson said.
“Especially as a Black fan myself, I feel really disappointed that we don’t have one, and now I’m trying to rationalize why that might be.”
Johnson guesses that the team might have a special game plan that they have not announced yet, or there is a cap on the number of unity nights each team can have.
Black Press Media has reached out to PWHL Vancouver to inquire about their plans for a Black History celebration night.
Mark your calendars
Our Theme & Unity nights are here!
More Info: https://t.co/J4TnMqNRVw pic.twitter.com/05OduDUVZm
— PWHL Vancouver (@PWHL__Vancouver) November 4, 2025
The PWHL Vancouver is set to drop the puck Nov. 21 against PWHL Seattle for its inaugural season, playing out of the Pacific Coliseum and utilizing the PNE Agrodome as its practice facility.
The PWHL will enter its third season this fall with its original six teams: Toronto Sceptres, Montreal Victoire, Ottawa Charge, Minnesota Frost, Boston Fleet, and New York Sirens, along with the two new teams, PWHL Vancouver and PWHL Seattle.
About the Author: Anna Burns
I cover breaking news, health care, court, women’s sports and social issues-related topics for the Surrey Now-Leader. anna.burns@surreynowleader.com Follow Anna on Twitter.