The Tampa Bay Lightning continue to inspire the city of Tampa, the state of Florida, and the entire National Hockey League. While the Bolts are always ready to entertain diehard hockey fans across the globe, the organization is also prepared to use its significant platform to speak to issues that matter. On February 21, the Lightning will be a part of NHL history. The team celebrates Black Heritage on Black History Night with activations before and during the game against the Anaheim Ducks.
On Tuesday night, the Lightning will honor the “Divine Nine” Black fraternities and sororities. For the first time in NHL History, The Divine Nine, inclusive of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Iota Phi Theta Fraternity, Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity, Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority, and Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, will conduct a ceremonial puck drop to pay tribute to the contributions of African Americans in the sport. This meaningful event will feature a special national anthem guest appearance by 100-year-old Tuskegee Airman Daniel Keel.
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Lightning Foundation makes major donation to Divine 9
The Lightning will also honor the Divine Nine as the Lightning Community Heroes on February 21, each receiving one-ninth of the $50,000 donation from the Lightning Foundation and the Lightning Community Heroes program. These funds will benefit local students in the Tampa Bay metropolitan area through scholarships and programs that the local Alumni Chapters’ leadership will administer.
“As a team and an organization, we are dedicated to promoting diversity, equity, and inclusion, and are proud to celebrate the contributions and achievements of Black Americans throughout history,” said Vinik Sports Group Chief Operating Officer Mark Pitts. “This month is a special time to recognize the impact of Black Americans, past and present, on the sport of hockey. We hope our activations will inspire future generations to continue promoting diversity and inclusiveness in all aspects of life.”
Those interested in getting tickets for the game can reserve their spot online. AMALIE Arena is located at 401 Channelside Drive.
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