Imama victim of racist gesture in AHL

Former Saint John Sea Dogs forward Boko Imama was the victim of a racist act earlier this month.

The American Hockey League announced Friday afternoon that San Jose Barracuda forward Krystof Hrabik has been suspended for 30 games "as a consequence of a racial gesture" directed at Imama during a game against the Tucson Roadrunners on Jan. 12. 

From the AHL's news release:

Based on the Barracuda’s schedule, Hrabik, who has already served three games of the suspension, would be eligible to return to the lineup on April 3, 2022.

The AHL believes that individual inclusion learning is a key element of improving league-wide culture. As such, as part of his suspension, Hrabik will be provided the opportunity to work with the National Hockey League’s Player Inclusion Committee to participate in education and training on racism and inclusion.

Hrabik may apply to AHL President and Chief Executive Officer Scott Howson for a reduction to the suspension and reinstatement after March 12, 2022, based on an evaluation of his progress in the necessary education and training with the Player Inclusion Committee.

Howson added that "the AHL stands with Boko Imama."

In 2020, Bakersfield Condors defenseman Brandon Manning was suspended five games by the AHL for a racial slur against Imama, who was a member of the Ontario Reign at the time.

worth noting it's two years to the day that brandon manning was suspended for making a racial gesture towards imama. manning was suspended five games. https://t.co/NwIH1ZKFCC

— zach laing (@zjlaing) January 21, 2022

Imama tweeted a statement on Friday night.

Enough is enough! pic.twitter.com/bETzUXEPGo

— Boko Imama (@bokojr) January 22, 2022

Hrabik also issued a statement.

Statement from Krystof Hrabik, who was suspended by #AHL today for 30 games for a racist gesture: pic.twitter.com/O3hA3CaOK4

— Frank Seravalli (@frank_seravalli) January 22, 2022

This suspension comes the same week that New Brunswick's Willie O'Ree, the first Black player in NHL history, had his number retired by the Boston Bruins. When it comes to inclusivity, hockey (and much of society) still has a long way to go.

Imama is playing in his fifth season of pro hockey and first with the Roadrunners, the AHL affiliate of the Arizona Coyotes. The 25-year-old has four goals and four assists in 27 games this year.