He could have been the Jackie Robinson of Hockey. Born too soon, Herb Carnegie still inspired generations—and left a Marvel-ous legacy.

Show Notes

Herb Carnegie may not have had the language to call out the racism he encountered in hockey in the 1930s and 40s. But that’s what it was. The game of hockey Herb Carnegie grew up in was staunchly and unapologetically racist. And you can’t  just take that out of the sport and the culture in a decade. Or even over 70 years for that matter. Not without a real reckoning. 

Hopefully, we’re beginning to have that reckoning in our sport now. We wish Herb was still around to see it. And we hope we can all take his example as inspiration as we push the sport forward. Carnegie was scarred by the barriers that kept him from playing in the NHL, but he was never beaten. Instead, he relentlessly fought for what was good and what was right; for the capacity to make change. 

The playing field was not level for Herb Carnegie. But he never stopped fighting to make sure it would be for those who came after him. For the good of the game he loved, and the community he called home. 

Our un-ending gratitude goes to Bernice Carnegie, who has been so instrumental in guiding this episode to life over many, many months. If you liked this episode, please, do yourself a favour and go out and get A Fly in a Pail of Milk. The newest edition of Herb Carnegie’s autobiography now features a second part, written by Bernice. It’s about her father’s life and their relationship - must read stuff. You can find it where better books are sold. Bernice, thank you for your time and your grace and wisdom. We hope, we pray, we did your Dad’s story justice. 

There is an ongoing petition, led by Herb’s grandson Rane, to get Herb into the Hockey Hall of Fame. Consider giving it a sign. You can check it out here.

‘Barrier Breakers’ was co-created by us here at Leafs Forever and Akil Augustine.

Today's episode was written by Scott and Paul Matthews, produced by Katie Jensen and Vocal Fry Studios for Maple Leaf Sports and Entertainment.

Thanks to associate producers Jay Cockburn, Ren Bangert, Emily Latimer & Erika Dreher, along with Shawna Morrison, Jordan Hayles, Michael Gelfand - for all the help along the way.