Dean Barnes

Dean Barnes is a trailblazer in diversity, inclusion, and racial equality, renowned for his compelling keynote speeches and groundbreaking work in promoting representation in hockey. As a Black hockey historian and award-winning podcast host, Dean has dedicated his career to celebrating the stories of underrepresented athletes in the sport. His iconic hockey card collection, featuring nearly 100 Black and biracial NHL players, has toured North America, earning widespread acclaim for its role in showcasing the rich history of diversity in hockey.

Dean’s passion for hockey began as a child in Burlington, Ontario, where he collected cards with spare change from his father. Growing up as one of the few Black players on the ice, his first glimpse of representation came in 1982 when he saw Tony McKegney playing for the Buffalo Sabres. This formative experience later inspired Dean to curate a collection that honours pioneers like Willie O’Ree, the NHL’s first Black player, and Hall of Famers such as Grant Fuhr. During the 2020 pandemic, he reignited his love for collecting by completing his childhood O-Pee-Chee set, a project that reconnected him with his younger self and fuelled his mission to promote inclusion in hockey.

Dean’s podcast, My Hockey Hero, has become a beacon for change, highlighting the inspirational journeys of Black NHL players and ranking among the top hockey podcasts in both Canada and the U.S. His work has garnered national attention, with features in The Globe and Mail, The Hockey News, and on NHL Sirius Radio. His card collection was a centrepiece of the NHL’s Black Hockey History mobile museum and the United by Hockey museum, further solidifying his role as a key figure in the movement for representation in sports. Barnes’ dedication extends beyond hockey; as an accomplished educator and PhD graduate, he champions wellness and equity in schools, reflecting his broader commitment to creating inclusive spaces.

Currently, Barnes is partnering with the Canadian Hockey League (CHL) to highlight stories of Indigenous and racialized players through monthly podcasts and live exhibits. He will play a prominent role at the 2024 Memorial Cup, where his collection will be displayed, and he will participate in a panel discussion following a documentary screening about legendary Black athletes. By sharing these powerful narratives, Barnes continues to inspire new generations and reinforce hockey’s growing commitment to diversity and inclusion.