Quigley Congressional Gold Medal Legislation Signed Into Law

Today U.S. Representative Mike Quigley (IL-05), the lead sponsor of the Willie O'Ree Congressional Gold Medal Act, released a statement after President Joe Biden signed the bill into law:

"Willie O'Ree forever changed the game of hockey. He became the first black player in the NHL, paving the way for black athletes who would follow in his footsteps. But this achievement would be just the beginning of a career dedicated to expanding the sport to young people, particularly young people of color," said Quigley. "The President signing this bill yesterday means that the work O'Ree has done will never be forgotten. He has left a permanent mark on the sport, and I can think of no better way to thank him than to honor him with the Congressional Gold Medal."

The Willie O'Ree Congressional Gold Medal Act, which was originally introduced in the House in May 2019, has been endorsed by the NHL, NHL Players' Association and USA Hockey.

In 1958, O'Ree was called-up from the minors to play for the Boston Bruins, becoming the first black player in NHL history. As the sole black player in the NHL, O'Ree endured racism, bigotry, and prejudice from players and fans on and off the ice. Despite this, he spent more than twenty-four seasons as a professional player in both the NHL and minor leagues. Following his professional hockey career, he became the NHL's Diversity Ambassador, where he established the Hockey Is For Everyone initiative to offer marginalized and disadvantaged children an opportunity to play hockey, create community, and develop important life skills.