Meet Rae Akino, the specialty jersey artist behind the Kraken's Black Hockey History design.
Seattle, WA - Tuesday night, the Seattle Kraken will celebrate Black Hockey History Night as part of their Common Thread Initiative to promote hockey for everyone. The players will arrive at Climate Pledge Arena wearing specialty jerseys designed by Rae Akino, a self-taught D.C. artist who uses bold colors and expressive forms to explore themes of spirituality, sexuality, and self. Inspired by music, theater, and life, her work challenges societal labels and creates a safe space for dialogue. Rae’s art embodies the idea that “I am all things” and “We are all things.”
The specialty jerseys will be signed by each player and auctioned off during the game, with proceeds benefiting the Black Girl Hockey Club. Akino’s jersey design blends traditional African tribal patterns with Afro-futuristic elements, featuring geometric shapes and circuit-like lines. Purple symbolizes nobility and creativity, orange represents optimism, and brilliant blue stands for energy and innovation. This fusion honors heritage while using it as a foundation for future progress, drawing on history’s lessons to create a better tomorrow.
Tuesday’s Heroes of the Deep award recipient is the Garfield High Jazz Foundation, and Judge Jones, in honor of his brother Quincy. The Kraken Unity Fund will grant $32,000 to the Garfield Jazz Foundation, expanding music programs for BIPOC students and those furthest from educational justice, providing accessible and inclusive music education at Garfield High School.
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Other guests performing in celebration will be Kraken anthem singer Tommie Burton joined by Kenisha Blackman for a rendition of "Lift Every Voice and Sing" and black country artist Aantwane Tyler.
The Kraken will host the Detroit Red Wings with puck drop scheduled for 7PM PST.
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