Thu Sep 19 08:00:00 UTC 2024: ## Kenora Women’s Hockey Leagues Threaten Legal Action Over “Discriminatory” Ice Allocation
Kenora, Ont. – A group of women’s hockey players in Kenora are gearing up to take legal action against the city, alleging that the current ice allocation policy discriminates against women. The players claim the policy, which grants them only two hours of ice time per week at 10 p.m., is unfairly restrictive and disadvantages them due to their gender roles and family commitments.
The city’s ice allocation policy was approved in December, with the women’s leagues voicing their concerns since. They argue the late-night time slot is impractical for players who often juggle childcare and household responsibilities, leading to a significant drop in participation.
“We’ve gone from 90 women consistently showing up to less than 20 who might make it out,” said Shayla Smith, a goalie in the recreational league.
The players, represented by Judson Howie LLP, sent a letter to the city demanding a more equitable policy within seven days. If no changes are made by September 30th, the group will file an application in the Ontario Superior Court of Justice, claiming the city is violating provincial and federal human rights legislation.
“An equitable approach needs to take into account the realities of this user group,” stated lawyer Doug Judson. “They are often young moms with a disproportionate share of responsibilities at home.”
While the city has offered alternative times on Saturday nights, the players argue these slots were previously detrimental to participation due to conflicting weekend schedules.
At a recent city council meeting, a motion was approved to review and rewrite the ice allocation policy for the 2025 season, incorporating principles of equity and assessing user priority ranking.
However, the women’s leagues face the possibility of having to sit out the upcoming season, as the review won’t be completed in time.
“It’s hard to be optimistic after so many years of fighting for this,” said Smith. “Why should we have to fight for two hours of ice time so that women’s hockey can exist in this town?”
This situation highlights a recurring struggle for women’s hockey teams across Canada, as they continue to face challenges in gaining equal access to ice time and resources. The outcome of this legal battle could have a significant impact on how cities address equity in sports and recreation programming.
First Piper 