The United States Trademark and Patent office ruled today that the Washington Redskins no longer own the rights to the team name or logo. Washington will hold on to the rights to the teams merchandise until the appeals process is over. As of right now this stands as a huge victory for the Native American community.
Washington owner Daniel Snyder has been stubborn about changing the organizations name since acquiring the team in 1999. In recent years the debate over whether the team should change the name has picked up speed. Representatives in the Native American community cite the name as being a direct racial slur. This situation makes me ponder, how would I feel if a professional sports team was called the Atlanta Black skins?
Snyder has hid behind the sorry excuse the name carries tradition. In reality the name has inherited a tradition. However, Snyder is blind towards what values his organizations name actually represents. The term "RedSkin" is rooted from a deep hatred of Native Americans. Look at the manner in which they were treated during the first 100 years of this countries existence. Native Americans were not considered citizens. The Government placed tribes with a history of turbulence on the same reservations. A lack or respect and consideration was given to the tradition and values of Native Americans.
The ruling does not force Washington to change their name. But it does continue to place the eagle eye on a name that has run its course. The organization must realize that times change. John Wayne movies depict how Native Americans were viewed during the 19th century. A part of American history people love to brush under the rug.
In time I hope Snyder comes to his senses and puts this situation to rest. If so many people are obviously offended, their must be some substance to the argument. Good luck Daniel Snyder, you've embarked on a losing battle.
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