Celebrating Indigenous Peoples Night with the Kraken at Climate Pledge Arena

Tuesday’s December 10th’s game between the Seattle Kraken and the Florida Panthers was an intense matchup filled with moments of grit and determination, with a closely contested 2-1 game. The game was a close contest from the first puck drop, with both teams showcasing strong defensive plays and stellar goaltending.

The match carried special significance as it was also Indigenous Peoples Night, presented by the Muckleshoot Tribe. The evening celebrated Indigenous heritage and highlighted the important connection between sports and community. The night was a reminder of the shared values of respect, inclusivity, and cultural pride.

Brandon Montour, a defenseman for the Kraken and a proud member of the Mohawk community, faced off against his former team, the Florida Panthers. Montour, who grew up on the Six Nations of the Grand River reserve near Toronto, understands the profound impact of representation and community connection. His presence on the ice exemplifies the growing recognition of Indigenous contributions to the world of professional sports.

The night opened with a powerful ceremonial puck drop at center ice. Montour stood alongside Panthers captain Aleksander Barkov, joined by five prominent members of the Pacific Northwest tribal community. Representing their tribes were Muckleshoot vice-chairman John Daniels Jr., Suquamish chairman Leonard Forsman, Puyallup chairman Bill Sterud, Chief Seattle Club executive director Derrick Belgarde, and United Indians of All Tribes Foundation executive director Mike Tulee. The ceremony set the tone for an evening rich in cultural significance and unity.

Indigenous Peoples Night wasn’t just about the game; it was a celebration of heritage and a platform to educate and inspire. The Kraken’s themed jerseys, designed by Muckleshoot cultural arts educator Keith Stevenson, were a standout feature. The orange base color which of course pays tribute to the Every Child Matters campaign, raising awareness about the history and legacy of Indigenous residential schools. The intricate design incorporated traditional Salish forms, including traditional Salish shapes symbolizing balance and the cultural heritage of the Pacific Northwest. Fans could purchase merchandise featuring Stevenson’s designs at the game, with proceeds benefiting both the artist and the One Roof Foundation’s initiatives.

The jerseys, signed by players, were auctioned off to support the Potlatch Fund, a Native-led nonprofit that has granted over $5.5 million to tribal communities in the Pacific Northwest. This initiative is a testament to the Kraken’s commitment to diversity and inclusion through their Common Thread program, which seeks to grow the game of hockey while fostering connections with underrepresented communities.

Other highlights of the night included performances by the Muckleshoot Canoe Singers during intermission and the house band, Khu.eex, whose music brought Indigenous storytelling and activism to life. Anthem singer Jeff Barehand, a member of the Navajo Nation and Gila River Indian Tribe, delivered a moving rendition of the national anthem. Fans also enjoyed delicious Native cuisine from the “Off the Rez” food truck stationed outside the arena.

United Indians, Sonny Sixkiller – Heroes of the Deep

The evening honored several prominent Indigenous leaders and allies. Former Washington Huskies quarterback Sonny Sixkiller accepted the Heroes of the Deep Award, along with a $32,000 check from the Kraken and One Roof Foundation on behalf of the United Indians of All Tribes Foundation. Other notable attendees included Sen. Claudia Kauffman, Rep. Chris Stearns, author Sherman Alexie, and Chief Seattle Club executive director Derrick Belgarde. Each of these individuals represents the ongoing effort to strengthen Indigenous communities and preserve their cultural heritage.

Montour, in his first Indigenous Peoples Night with the Kraken after signing a seven-year deal with the team, expressed his excitement about the event. “It matters,” he said, reflecting on the importance of creating awareness and fostering connections between sports teams and Indigenous communities. For Montour, the night was more than just a game; it was an opportunity to shine a spotlight on the resilience and contributions of Indigenous people.

As the final whistle blew in a closely contested game, the spirit of the evening remained uplifting. Events like Indigenous Peoples Night highlight the power of sports to bring communities together and foster a deeper understanding of our shared histories. While the team didn’t secure a win on the ice, the broader goal of unity and recognition was achieved in spades.

As a branch of United Indians, we at Daybreak Star Radio extend our heartfelt thanks to the One Roof Foundation and the Kraken for their generous donation to support Indigenous initiatives, which was presented alongside the Heroes of the Deep Award accepted by Sonny Sixkiller.

At Daybreak Star Radio, we’re proud to be part of events that celebrate diversity, inclusion, and cultural pride. Let’s continue to support the Seattle Kraken and all the meaningful initiatives that make hockey more than just a game—it’s a community.