Experience the fusion of culture and sport as the Color of Hockey: Capitals’ jersey, song remix to mark Black History Month takes center stage. Discover the symbolism behind the design and the “District Dozen” anthem.
The intersection of sport and culture has always been a powerful place for storytelling, and this February, the nation’s capital is leading the charge. The Washington Capitals have unveiled a breathtaking celebration of heritage that goes far beyond the ice. From the threads of their uniforms to the rhythm of the arena, the Color of Hockey: Capitals’ jersey, song remix to mark Black History Month is a masterclass in honoring a legacy.
Highlights of the Capitals’ Black History Month Celebration
| Feature | Description |
| Design Partner | Bailiwick Clothing (D.C.-based) |
| Main Crest | Redesigned “Screaming Eagle” in Pan-African colors |
| Special Anthem | “District Dozen” remix by rapper Saukrates |
| Historical Tribute | Honors all 12 Black players in franchise history |
| Charity Element | Jerseys auctioned for the Capital Impact Fund |
Symbolic Stitches and D.C. Roots
When the Capitals took the ice at Capital One Arena against the Vegas Golden Knights, they weren’t just wearing another specialty kit. The Color of Hockey: Capitals’ jersey, song remix to mark Black History Month features a deeply intentional design created in collaboration with Bailiwick Clothing. The iconic “Screaming Eagle” was reimagined with red, green, and yellow accents to reflect the Pan-African flag, but the details go much deeper.
On the back, the numbers contain a pattern emulating the Boundary Stones of Washington, D.C. These stones were originally surveyed by Benjamin Banneker, a famous Black mathematician and astronomer, in 1791. By incorporating these markers, Color of Hockey the jersey bridges the gap between the city’s founding history and its modern hockey heroes. It’s a literal “gold standard” for diversity representation in the NHL.
Honoring the “District Dozen”
One of the most touching elements of the new uniform is the shoulder patch. It serves as a roll call for the 12 Black athletes who have worn the Capitals sweater over the last 51 years. The Color of Hockey: Capitals’ jersey, song remix to mark Black History Month recognizes everyone from pioneers like Mike Marson and Bill Riley to modern-day fan favorites like Joel Ward and Devante Smith-Pelly.
The 12th player on that list, rookie forward Justin Sourdif, has already etched his name in the record books. Earlier this season, Sourdif became the first Black player in franchise history to record a hat trick. Seeing his name alongside the legends who paved Color of Hockey the way is a full-circle moment for the organization and a reminder that the team’s commitment to growth is as strong as ever.
A Fresh Beat for a New Generation
The celebration isn’t just visual; it’s auditory. The team debuted a powerful remix of the song “Caps 11,” now titled “District Dozen.” This updated anthem, performed by Canadian rapper Saukrates, echoes through the arena to celebrate the franchise’s Black hockey legacy. The Color of Hockey: Capitals’ jersey, song remix to mark Black History Month ensures that the fans aren’t just watching history—they are feeling the energy of it.
Saukrates, whose work was previously nominated for an Emmy, expressed his pride in the Capitals’ consistent commitment to the community. The song serves as a tribute to the resilience and achievement of Black players in a sport that is continuously striving to be more inclusive. For Sourdif and his teammates, the song is a source of motivation as they push toward the playoffs.
Supporting the Future of the Game
Beyond the lights and the music, there is a tangible impact being made. The game-worn and signed jerseys from the Color of Hockey: Capitals’ jersey, song remix to mark Black History Month celebration are being auctioned off. The proceeds go directly to the Capitals Capital Impact Fund, which works to provide access to hockey for underrepresented communities in the D.C. area.
This initiative proves that the “Celebrating Black History” game is more than just a single night on the calendar. It is part of a year-long effort to ensure that the next generation of hockey players—regardless of their background—has a place on the ice. The Capitals aren’t just celebrating the past; they are actively building a more diverse future for the sport.
Conclusion
The Washington Capitals have set a high bar for how professional teams should engage with their community’s history. Through the Color of Hockey: Capitals’ jersey, song remix to mark Black History Month, they have managed to blend historical education with modern sport and entertainment. It is a vibrant, respectful, and necessary tribute to the men who have shaped the franchise. As the “District Dozen” continues to inspire, the legacy of Black excellence in Washington hockey remains a cornerstone of the team’s identity.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Who designed the Capitals’ Black History Month jersey?
The jersey was designed in partnership with Bailiwick Clothing, a D.C.-based brand founded by brothers JC and Jeff Smith.
2. What is the significance of the “District Dozen”?
The term and the song remix refer to the 12 Black players who have played for the Capitals throughout the team’s 51-year history.
3. How does the jersey honor D.C. history?
The numbering on the Color of Hockey: Capitals’ jersey, song remix to mark Black History Month features a pattern inspired by the Boundary Stones surveyed by Black mathematician Benjamin Banneker.
4. Where do the proceeds from the jersey auction go?
The funds are donated to the Capitals Capital Impact Fund, which helps grow the game of hockey in diverse and underserved communities.
5. Which current player is featured in the new song?
Rookie forward Justin Sourdif is the latest addition to the “District Dozen” celebrated in the remix by Saukrates.
