A former NHL player who became an advocate for victims of sexual abuse is set to receive one of the nation’s highest honours.
Sheldon Kennedy, a spokesperson for the Red Cross’ Abuse Prevention Programs, has been named to the Order of Canada.
“The Governor General's (David Johnston) office called and let me know,” said Kennedy. “I was just really taken aback because I don’t do this work for recognition but, on the other hand, I’m just very grateful that the issues that I represent have been recognized at such a high level.”
At the end of his playing career, Kennedy disclosed his own abuse at the hands of a former coach.
“There was a time, when I started my journey in 1997, that nobody wanted to hear what Sheldon Kennedy had to say outside of the media. We’ve come a long way but we’ve got a long ways to go.”
Calgary’s Child Advocacy Centre was renamed the Sheldon Kennedy Child Advocacy Centre in April of 2013 to recognize the contributions of the tireless crusader for abuse victims.
“It’s not about Sheldon Kennedy,” said Kennedy. “My role is to keep these issues in the forefront long enough for change to happen. You never receive an honour like this alone. There have been many people who have been helping me out and continue to help me out.”
“I believe that Canada is a leader in this work. Recognition at this level takes the work that we do and these issues to the place that says that this is an important issue in our country.”
Sheldon Kennedy will be recognized by the Governor General of Canada at a future ceremony.
