Member for kelowna mission. Thank you honorable speaker last month, I, along with many other hockey fans across north america, was both shocked and moved when kyle beach revealed that he was the john doe named in the report investigating the chicago blackhawks sexual assault scandal having grown up in kelowna kyle was drafted to the nhl in 2008, but his future changed in 2010 when he was sexually assaulted by a coach.

Not only was kyle assaulted and threatened physically, but the coach also threatened his career to keep him silent. In an interview with tsn kyle remarked on the days following the abuse saying- and I quote, to be honest- I was scared. Mostly I was fearful. I had my career threatened. I felt alone and dark. End quote: kyle reported the incident, but nothing happened.

All the while his abuser remained free, given the option to resign without having to face real accountability, but when kyle stood up when he told his story, he created space for all those who have ever been in a similar situation.

To also tell theirs, kyle demonstrated his immense courage opening himself up to public scrutiny about such a traumatic experience, all with the goal of bringing true accountability after so many years. His story is powerful and simply by sharing it, he has helped to break down the stigma and shame for others who have been subjected to abuse. His bravery has caught the attention of those in kelowna this province, this country and the world, and I want him to know that we stand with him.

We are proud of you kyle for speaking out about this injustice, and I hope today that kyle's story will inspire us all to stand up against harassment, assault and abuse in all of its forms, as silence makes us complicit, but standing together becomes our collected strength. Thank you.