Kraken Common Thread: Celebrating Indigenous Peoples Night At Climate Pledge Arena

The Seattle Kraken honored Muckleshoot artists and Indigenous communities during the Florida Panthers game.

The Seattle Kraken celebrated Indigenous Peoples Night at Climate Pledge Arena as part of their Kraken Common Thread initiative, honoring the connection between hockey and Indigenous communities. The event highlighted the team's commitment to inclusivity and unity, with a focus on diversity.

Goalie Philipp Grubauer wore a special helmet designed by Preston Singletary and Ty Juviel, marking their second collaboration. 

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The night began with a ceremonial puck drop by the Vice-Chairman John Daniels Jr., Puyallup Tribal Councilman Fred Dillion, Squamish Chairman Leonard Forsman, Chief Seattle Club Executive Director and Indigenous Advisory Council Member Derrick Belgrade, and United Tribes of All Indians Executive Director Mike Tullee. Kraken defenseman Brandon Montour, a member of the Mohawk/Six Nations of the Grand River and Panthers Captain Aleksander Barkov presented the game puck to the honored guests. 

Jeff Barehand performed a powerful operatic rendition of the national anthem. Barehand, who is Navajo and a citizen of the Gila River Indian Community, is currently playing White Feather in the first Native American pop musical, Distant Thunder.

The Kraken arrived to the arena wearing specialty jerseys designed by Muckleshoot artist Keith Stevenson, featuring intricate patterns that honored Indigenous heritage.

Each player-signed specialty jersey was auctioned off during the game via the Anchor Auction, with funds benefiting the Potlatch Fund and One Roof Foundation. Common Thread merchandise featuring the specialty design was also available for purchase at the Kraken Team Stores.

Off the ice, the event included a performance by the Seattle-based indigenous funk/rock/jazz band Khu.éex’, and legendary football player Sonny Sixkiller was recognized with the night's Heroes of the Deep award.

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