EXPRESS LEAD RACISM FIGHT
League unveils new code of conduct
Realistically, the National Basketball League of Canada could go only so far when it comes to unruly fans.
Still, the league hopes Wednesday’s announcement of a fan code of conduct will be a step in the right direction when it comes to dealing with such individuals. “That’s a great thing right there,” Express guard Ryan Anderson said of the code. “For them to release something like this is pretty cool.” The code was put into place in response to events during a Jan. 25 game in Halifax between the host Rainmen and Windsor Express, where Windsor players were subjected to racial taunts.
“The events that led to the development of our new code are unfortunate,” NBL of Canada deputy commissioner Audley Stephenson said in a release. “However, we’re happy as a league that we’re able to respond in this manner while taking a hard stance against negative behaviour meant to offend and humiliate others.
“Our players are undeserving of such treatment and, as a league, we stand by them and denounce these acts of an inconsiderate few.” Windsor players, led by Anderson, produced a one-minute video that was posted on social media to address concerns over the incident.
“If you’re not respectful, I think anyone would agree, if you’re caught doing certain things, we need to ask security or management to address it,” Express president and CEO Dartis Willis said. “If that means removing someone (because of it), that happens in all sports. It’s not anything new. “We can act like we have deaf ear or nothing’s happening, but it has to be addressed. I don’t think it was addressed properly (in Halifax) and that’s why the continuation happened.”
Under conditions of the code, the NBL of Canada and its teams will take a zero-tolerance stance as it relates to racism, sexism, homophobia and other ‘isms’ that demean, disrespect or aim to make an individual(s) feel less than who they are. The arena staff has been trained to intervene where necessary to help ensure that the above expectations are met, and guests are encouraged to report any inappropriate behaviour to the nearest usher, security guard or guest services staff member. Guests who choose not to adhere to these provisions will be subject to ejection without refund and revocation of season tickets and may also be in violation of city ordinances resulting in possible arrest and prosecution.
Windsor will play in Halifax one more time in the regular season on March 20.