The NFL’s Washington, D.C. franchise announced Monday that it will remove the “Redskins” name and logo, CNN reports.
What We Know:
- The team’s decision comes just a few days after they announced they would be conducting a “thorough review” of the name which has long been criticized by Native American groups as an ethnic slur.
- “As part of this process, we want to keep our sponsors, fans and community apprised of our thinking as we go forward. Today, we are announcing we will be retiring the Redskins name and logo upon completion of this review,” the team said in a statement Monday.
- They added that owner Daniel Snyder and head coach Ron Rivera “are working closely to develop a new name and design approach that will enhance the standing of our proud, tradition rich franchise and inspire our sponsors, fans and community for the next 100 years”.
- Though the team’s new name has not yet been revealed, team coach Ron Rivera said they are working on a name to honor both the military and Native Americans.
- Pressure from corporate sponsors is seen as an additional driving force behind the name change, specifically from FedEx who has the naming rights to the team’s stadium. Other brands, including Nike and Amazon, have removed the team’s merchandise from their online stores.
The Washington Redskins are the first team to announce a name change as calls to end systematic oppression are at the forefront of social and political rhetoric. The MLB’s Cleveland Indians have also taken steps to reevaluate their team name.
