Thursday, The Museum of the American Indian held a symposium. The topic of discussion was racial stereotypes in American sports. Panelists and the members in the audience, discussed how they felt about the racial mascots and team names. The Washington Washington Football Team was the focus of the debate.
For years, American Indians have deep feelings about Washington D.C.’s football team. The group feels that that term Washington Football Team” is racist, and hurtful to their race. Manley Begay of the Navajo Nation, a professor of American Indian studies at the University of Arizona, was in attendance of the symposium. Begay feels that the name “Redskin” is derogatory, and that it harms and demeans native people. The Museum Director, Kevin Gover, who is apart of the Pawnee Nation, feels that the term “Redskin” is just as offensive as the “N word”.
This is not the first time that the Washington football team has been in the spotlight for their name. This situation was a case in the Supreme Court in 2009, which clearly didn’t end with a name change. A Washington Post columnist feels that the name should be changed from the Washington Football Team, to the Washington Warriors. Going on to say Warriors would be a way to recognize veterans, and those who served.
The team has yet to respond on the name change idea. Those who attended the symposium are thinking of ways to bring attention to this sensitive issue. One idea was to protest during training camp, and also to get star Rookie quarterback, Robert Griffin Jr. III to speak out on the issue.
What do you think!? Do you feel that the Washington Washington Football Team is offensive, and the name should be changed!? Hit me on Twitter @REDalert__ with your thoughts.
-Juju
#NOstoplights
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