Willie O’Ree, the National Hockey League’s first Black player, made his NHL debut on January 18, 1958.

New Brunswick born, O’Ree, the grandchild of escaped slaves, played for the Boston Bruins from 1958 and 1961. 

Willie O’Ree
Issued by Canada Post in 2023
Designer: Underline Studio
Illustrator: Mike McQuade
Photographer: Philip Cheung

Following a trailblazing career, O’Ree has continued to inspire generations of Canadians, dedicating his life to promoting diversity and inclusion in hockey. His work encourages young people to follow their dreams despite obstacles or prejudice. In 2018, O’Ree was inducted to the Hockey Hall of Fame for his work on and off the ice, and the NHL has since created the Willie O’Ree Community Hero Award in his honour.
New stamp celebrates hockey pioneer Willie O’Ree | Canada Post