The Dallas Stars and Dallas Mavericks are stepping up their game during Black History Month with a series of events that celebrate and support the African-American community. This Saturday, the Stars' foundation is sending pucks flying outside of the rink and into the economic arena by hosting the second annual Black-owned business market at the Rusty Nickel Icehouse in Fort Worth, as reported by NBC DFW.
From 11 a.m. to 3 p.m., community members can shop till they drop, supporting local Black-owned businesses from literature to food, jewelry, and more. And to make hockey as inclusive as its fanbase, Al Montoya, the director of cultural growth & strategy at the Dallas Stars, told NBC DFW in an interview, "For us, it's a chance to be intentional, to get outside the rink and really help amplify these communities that make up DFW. We want people to feel comfortable in our arenas and we want these communities to really come in and know that the Dallas Stars are their team."
Shifting courts, the Dallas Mavericks are also honoring Black History Month but with a different play—through art. They're running a Black History Art Contest for North Texas students. Running now until February 15th, students are encouraged to create art pieces that reflect the teachings and legacy of Black leaders past and present. According to CBS News, contest winners will not only be recognized during a Mavs game but will also score a trip to Detroit to steep in historical sites including a front-row seat to see the Mavs take on the Pistons.
The cultural pride doesn't end there. The winning artwork has the honor of being showcased in the African American Museum in Dallas. While the kids paint their hearts out, the Stars aren’t just icing the puck with their efforts. They're planning a special Black History Night during their February 26 game against the New York Islanders. So, while February might be the shortest month, these teams are making sure it's packed with recognition and support for the Black community, reflecting on history while shooting for a better future in sports and beyond.
