History has often told the story of Black people through the lens of suffering and struggle. Yet, beyond the pain, there is something deeper, something transcendent—a creative and spiritual essence that has left an indelible mark on the world. Dr. Howard Washington Thurman, a theologian, mystic, and mentor to Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., referred to this as the Invisible Hand of Evolution. This force ensures the unique contributions of formerly enslaved Africans continue to shape the world in ways we might never have imagined.
At first, the notion of the "benefits of slavery" seemed unfathomable to me. How could something as brutal and dehumanizing as slavery yield anything positive? I remember a classmate from Morehouse College telling me about Dr. Thurman's lecture on this topic; my first reaction was disbelief. But as I listened, I began to understand.
Dr. Thurman spoke of the African people’s deep spiritual and creative connection to the world—a soul energy cultivated through their bond with nature and the Presence of the Living God. Enslavement, though horrific, scattered this energy across the globe, embedding it into cultures, communities, and even unexpected places—like the game of hockey.
The Underground Railroad and the Hidden Impact on Hockey
I know little about hockey. The only thing I vividly remember from the one hockey game I attended was how cold it was inside the arena. If you ever go, take my advice—bring a coat. Yet, as I learned about the game’s history, I discovered an incredible truth: formerly enslaved Africans played a pivotal role in revolutionizing hockey.
It all began when many people escaped enslavement in the American South through the Underground Railroad, seeking refuge in Canada—particularly in Nova Scotia. Here, they found something remarkable: recognition of their humanity. Unlike the systemic oppression they endured in the U.S., the Canadians welcomed them into churches, not just as passive attendees but as active community members. Of course, some of this was self-serving—churches always want more seats filled—but regardless of intent, these new relationships sparked something unexpected.
In the U.S., church communities often form softball teams. But this was Canada. And in Canada, they played hockey.
How Black Pioneers Transformed Hockey
The Black players of Nova Scotia brought more than just numbers to the game. They introduced a new style of play, one infused with the creativity and improvisational spirit that Dr. Thurman described as part of the African soul energy.
From this community emerged the Coloured Hockey League of the Maritimes (CHL) in 1895—predating the NHL by over 20 years. These Black players changed the game in ways that have shaped modern hockey:
They introduced the slapshot, a technique now fundamental to the sport.
Their style emphasized speed, agility, and innovation, laying the groundwork for the dynamic gameplay in the NHL today.
They broke barriers, challenging the notion that hockey was a sport only for white Canadians.
Yet, their contributions were primarily erased from mainstream history—another instance of Black ingenuity buried beneath layers of systemic exclusion.
The Soul Energy that Shapes the Future
The story of Black history is not just about endurance, but about transformation. The same creative essence that enabled enslaved Africans to find beauty in suffering, craft music from sorrow, and build culture from displacement is the same force that continues to shape today's world.
Dr. Thurman’s Invisible Hand of Evolution reminds us that the energy persists no matter how much society tries to suppress or erase Black contributions. It finds its way into music, art, politics, sports—even Canada's frozen rinks.
This Black History Month, let’s move beyond narratives of oppression and into stories of innovation, resilience, and the power of the soul to shape history. Whether through hockey, music, science, or social justice, Black brilliance has never been invisible—it has simply been waiting for the world to catch up.
Peace and Blessings,
James
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