Recommendation #87 of the Truth and Reconciliation Commission Final Report calls for collaborative efforts from all levels of government, Aboriginal peoples, sports halls of fame, and relevant organizations to provide public education highlighting the national story of Aboriginal athletes in history.
In response to this imperative, the Manitoba Basketball Hall of Fame and Museum (MBHOFM) secured a grant from the Arts, Culture and Sport in Community (ACSC) Small Capital and Special Initiatives Program, facilitated by Manitoba Sport, Culture and Heritage. This grant empowered the MBHOFM to enlist the expertise of former Wesmen player Robyn Boulanger to commence the research endeavour aimed at uncovering the rich tapestry of Indigenous basketball in Manitoba.
A significant milestone resulting from this initiative is a research paper curated by Robyn titled "Indigenous Peoples & the Growth of Basketball in Manitoba." Serving as an inaugural endeavour, this paper lays the foundation for documenting Indigenous peoples' integral role in shaping the landscape of basketball within our province. Emphasizing that this undertaking is a work in progress, the MBHOFM extends an open invitation for contributions that will further enrich the collection, exhibition, and dissemination of this vital segment of sports history.
The research paper is accessible through the following link:
Indigenous Peoples & the Growth of Basketball in Manitoba
This concerted effort not only commemorates the contributions of Indigenous peoples to the sport of basketball but also underscores the importance of acknowledging and celebrating their enduring legacy within Manitoba's sporting heritage.
The MBHOFM is grateful for the support of the Arts, Culture and Sport in Community (ACSC) Small Capital and Special Initiatives Program, facilitated by Manitoba Sport, Culture and Heritage and Robyn for her time and commitment to this important initiative.