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August 14, 2018

How the CFL’s Diversity is Strength honours cultural heritage

For 2018, the Canadian Football League strives to shine a light on those unique players and contributors who have molded the foundation of the diverse community fans have come to know and love.

The community has been cultivated by a number of players and people from all walks of life, who have weaved the multicultural fabric that hold the core beliefs and values the CFL represent. From signing the first black quarterback to the first openly gay player, diversity is at the core of the League’s culture.

The Diversity is Strength program aims to recognize and honour these inspiring individuals by sharing their stories in order to acknowledge their impact as well contribution to the League’s growth and success. Without these key stakeholders, the League would lack the strength and spirit that it carries on today.

Former Calgary Stampeders former players Herm Harrison and John Helton are just two of the 12 honourees represented. Their stories tell of their persistence and perseverance against adversity as they built out their professional careers.

In addition to the Calgary alumni, the other 10 stories share the personal triumphs of players and people across the Canadian teams which hold a similar theme around the solidarity that the CFL community brought to their lives.

As the first female General Manager in the League, Jo-Anne Polak stated in her story, “At the end of the day we were all in it together and (we all wanted) to see the CFL survive and thrive.” Regardless of heritage, orientation, religion, ability, ethnicity and more, the CFL has built a community working towards a common goal.

During Weeks 10 and 11 of the season, the CFL will host a multitude of activities and cultural showcases on the Diversity is Strength gamedays.

Upcoming gameday Saturday, August 25, 2018 at 1:30 PM against the Winnipeg Blue Bombers at McMahon Stadium (tickets available here) will be in tandem with the Family Day Tailgate pregame celebration. The Family Day tailgate will present a great opportunity for first time fans to experience the Canadian culture the CFL prides itself in the local Calgary community and John Helton will also be in attendance.

Fans looking to support the Diversity is Strength program can purchase Limited Edition T-shirts and sweatshirts through the official CFL store online, available here.