Petition to ‘Reclaim the Redskins Name’ Gains Over 75,000 Signatures

A petition advocating for the revival of the historic NFL team name, the Washington Redskins, has garnered substantial support, with over 75,000 signatures as of Wednesday evening. 

The team, which transitioned to the Washington Commanders in 2020 following social unrest prompted by George Floyd’s tragic death, has faced criticism from fans yearning for the reinstatement of its former moniker.

The petition, created by Daniel Fazzolare, emphasizes the deep cultural and historical significance the “Redskins” name held, celebrating the bravery and warrior spirit of Native American culture. Petition supporters assert that the name was intended as a mark of respect rather than offense. Dissatisfaction with the current “Commanders” name is rooted in its perceived vagueness and lack of relatability.

“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,” he wrote in the petition.

Fazzolare further cited in a local report the support of the Native American Guardians Association (NAGA) for restoring the original name. NAGA representative Andre Billeaudeaux deemed the previous Redskins logo as non-offensive, aligning with the petition’s stance.

“We acknowledge the concerns surrounding cultural sensitivity and the need to foster inclusivity. However, we firmly believe that there are alternative ways to honor and respect Native American heritage without erasing it. By reclaiming the Redskins name, we have the opportunity to engage in meaningful dialogue, educational initiatives, and collaborations with Native American communities. Together, we can promote cultural appreciation, address misconceptions, and work towards a more inclusive society.”

This development arises amid uncertainty for the Washington franchise, which recently underwent ownership changes. Speculation has emerged that the team, under Magic Johnson’s minority ownership, might rebrand again in 2024.

The name change in 2020 stemmed from pressure exerted by major corporations, including Nike, FedEx, and PepsiCo, striving to avoid alienating Native American fans. However, proponents of the “Redskins” name change have cited concerns of perpetuating racial stereotypes, contrasting a 2004 University of Pennsylvania study that reported 90% of Native Americans disagreed.

The team’s transition to “Washington Football Team” during the 2021 season paved the way for deliberation over potential new names. Eventually, “Commanders” was selected in February 2022, with the team highlighting its connection to the military history of Washington DC. The rebranding decision sidestepped direct acknowledgment of the racial controversy, leaving some fans dissatisfied.

As the petition gains momentum, it remains to be seen whether the Washington Commanders will revisit their choice and potentially resurrect the iconic “Redskins” moniker.

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