Akim Aliu has led an interesting path that brought him to making a change in the sport he loved, hockey. Systemic racism in sports isn’t a new phenomenon. The stories of people through a variety of sports who have talked about the abuses, hazing and racial conflicts among fellow players, coaches and so-called fans are plentiful. Think about that sport you loved growing up, then find out that you are exceptional to the point where you are drafted at a young age to be in the pros. Now realize loving this activity, comprised with you are, a young black boy, whose parents are a Nigerian father and Ukrainian mother, where you spent your formative years in Nigeria, Russia then Canada, where your first language is Russian will most probably cost you. Too white for one space, too black for another, but you are great at something you love. The adversity Akim faced in his love for hockey is now a compelling graphic novel that will make you cry. But first you will be outraged.
Written by Aliu with award-winning comic-book writer Greg Anderson Elysee, illustrated by Karen De La Vega and Marcus Williams “Dreamer” is a graphic novel geared towards young readers. Narrated by Aliu, through a series of narrative structures including at times breaking the fourth wall, Aliu shows readers his determination to play hockey. It includes his biracial heritage and the acceptance of his Ukrainian grandfather who he adores. Most importantly it reflects that even with the loving support of family, racism is an insidious monster that constantly must be fought.
In comics the artwork is of the foremost importance. While the collaborative effort of both words and art are significant to the flow of the story, the art in “Dreamer” reveals what happened to Aliu in ways where words just aren’t enough. There are a series panels where he describes the loneliness faced with playing hockey, black smiling, menacing faces with hollow mouths and eyes. He’s encircled by this hatred and the only clear forms are him and the racist bully he’s fighting. It’s a wonder Aliu survived the torment.
Akim Aliu’s career of playing hockey was cut short by racism to the point where he was pushed out of the league by his coach at the time. In doing so he fought back, first by using his voice, forming a support group, then branching out to found the Hockey Diversity Alliance. It’s an initiative that makes hockey a sport available to black people, people of color, indigenous folks, essentially accessing a sport where there were limited opportunities to be a part of.
Throughout the graphic novel Aliu shows the beauty of the game and why he fell in love with it. For black people there are some spaces where we don’t feel welcome, where we are constantly pressed to reclaim our humanity. As a black man Aliu shares his journey and shows that transmuting the hate of racism is a way to not only make your dream a reality but help others too.
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