Monday, September 8, 2014

The Washington Redskins name

(Credit: Stormgrounds)

Hello,

Despite my hatred of the team... The Washington Redskins... I don't find the name offensive but lately a lot of people and Indian tribes have been finding it offensive and wrong. Daniel Snyder has said: Hey, we're not changing it.

Governor O'Malley says the name needs to be changed as it slanders Indian tribes...

Networks have refused to put the name on the networks or show the logo.

Is it just me or am I seeing a double standard here.

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In my opinion, the team needs to be left alone in terms of the name. Native Americans actually approved of the team name

This from REDSKINSFACTS.COM:

The Redskins logo in use today was first designed in 1971 in close consultation with Native American leaders. Among those who unanimously approved and voiced praise for the logo was Walter "Blackie" Wetzel, a former President of the National Congress of American Indians and Chairman of the Blackfeet Nation. Years earlier, Mr. Wetzel had been deeply involved with U.S. President John F. Kennedy in the movement for civil liberties, civil rights, and economic freedom for all. In 2014, Mr. Wetzel's son Don commented, “It needs to be said that an Indian from the State of Montana created that [Redskins] logo, and did it the right way. It represents the Red Nation, and it's something to be proud of.

Similarly dignified images of Native Americans in traditional headdress are still in use by other American organizations, as well. For example, The National Congress of American Indians—which, coincidentally, was founded after the Washington Redskins football team—has such a logo.

High schools on Native American reservations, including Red Mesa High School in Teec Nos Pos, AZ (Navajo Nation) and Wellpinit High School in Wellpinit, WA (Spokane Tribe), continue to embrace and use the Redskins name and logo.

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Wait, am I not getting something here: I'm seeing support from Native Americans and I myself, find the name fine.

We are too politically correct nowadays and people just don't get it. It's not an offensive name. Shoot they used "REDSKIN" in an episode of Beverly Hillbillies and they found no offense! Granny even used the slur, "INJUN" which is FAR WORSE!!!!!

In fact, many tribes are finding that the name of the Redskins is actually enlightening to see. It represents the Native American warriors in a true blue fashion.

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So what do we do?

I say the NFL should force a name change. Which I would not agree with at all. Or worse yet, tell the franchise they can't play any games until the name is changed.

Sanction them.

Do what they have to do... But I'll tell you, it will anger the fans.

I'm actually glad that Snyder is not bowing to pressure but he is not the brightest of owners.

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My feeling: LEAVE THE NAME ALONE and MOVE ON! It's just a name, not intended to offend anyone. Stop being so politically correct and worry about the troubles plaguing our Native American friends.

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