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For the longest time, the NHL didn’t have to deal with issues of race because there was nothing black on the ice but the puck. But the suspension of Chris Simon Tuesday makes it clear: The NHL isn’t just for white Canadians anymore. Although there are few black players, the league has become increasingly multiethnic the last decade, with more Europeans and Americans of varying descents. And there are more black faces around arenas (writers, off-ice officials and fans) and in jerseys (hockey sweaters have become part of the culture). Too frequently, the old guard treats newcomers with disdain and stereotypical judgment. (How many times have we heard Europeans’ toughness questioned?) The league needs to start changing mind-sets as soon as it can.