Akim Aliu responds to Flames coach Bill Peters' apology letter
Bill Peters issued a statement on Wednesday evening, apologizing in an open letter to GM Brad Treliving as well as the entire Calgary Flames organization.
It was in response to allegations from former player Akim Aliu, who accused Peters of racist behaviour a decade ago.
Peters apologized for using “offensive language,” saying it was an “isolated and immediately regrettable incident” and that he takes responsibility for what he said.
A statement from Bill Peters, in the form of a letter to CGY GM Brad Treliving:: pic.twitter.com/YouP6ZABrm
— Bob McKenzie (@TSNBobMcKenzie) November 28, 2019
Peters said that he “immediately returned to the dressing room to apologize to the team” at the time and has regretted it since it happened. He added that he “meant no disrespect” in what he said, but acknowledged that it was “hurtful and demeaning.”
Aliu responded to the letter on Thursday.
“I have read the statement of Bill Peters which I found to be misleading, insincere, and concerning,” Aliu said in a tweet.
“I have accepted an invitation from the NHL to meet and discuss this situation. Out of respect for that process I will not respond publicly to the statement or discuss the racism and discrimination that I have endured until after my meeting.”
— Akim Aliu (@Dreamer_Aliu78) November 28, 2019
Peters has not been with the Flames since Monday’s game in Pittsburgh, while an investigation is ongoing. Assistant coach Geoff Ward has been running practices and served as interim head coach during Wednesday’s 3-2 win in Buffalo.
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