Culture Wars/Current Controversies

Native American group threatens boycott if Washington NFL team doesn’t change its name back to ‘Redskins’

By John Clark

WASHINGTON (WTVO) — The Native American Guardians Association has threatened an “Anheuser Busch (Bud Light)”-style boycott, demanding the Washington Commanders change the team name back to “Redskins.”

The letter claims the Commanders are in willful denial of U.S. history and the Native American components of the founding of America and the U.S. Constitution.

The petition, called Reclaim The Name: Redskins has amassed 77,000 signatures since Tuesday.

NAGA claims the majority of Native Americans feel disrespected by the name change. The group was established in 1944 and advocates for the recognition of Native American heritage through sports and other public platforms.

“The name ‘Redskins’ carries deep cultural, historical, and emotional significance, honoring the bravery, resilience, and warrior spirit associated with Native American culture. It was never intended as a derogatory or offensive term but as a symbol of respect and admiration. Changing the name abruptly disregards the positive legacy that the Redskins name has built over the years and disorients the passionate fans who have invested their emotions, time, and unwavering support in the team,” the petition reads.

“The name ‘Commanders’ fails to capture the essence, tradition, and historical weight associated with the Redskins. It lacks the uniqueness, emotional connection, and pride that our team’s original name embodies,” it continued.

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