That football team from Washington is changing its racist name and logo
After 87 seasons, the team’s name and its equally offensive logo are being retired.
The Washington Redskins are finally changing their name and logo after years of pushback from Indigenous and anti-racism groups who have long derided the branding as racist.
Widespread and continued conversations about racism have taken hold across a number of industries following the deaths of George Floyd, Breonna Taylor, and Ahmaud Arbery among countless others; bringing renewed scrutiny to the team's name, a known slur, and its logo depicting an Indigenous man. On July 3, the team released a statement indicating the name and branding was undergoing a "thorough review." Now, they've made their decision.
"We will be retiring the Redskins name and logo," the team said in a statement, adding they have not yet decided on a new direction. “Dan Snyder and Coach Rivera are working closely to develop a new name and design approach that will enhance the standing of our proud, tradition-rich franchise and inspire our sponsors, fans, and community for the next 100 years.”
The decision closely follows the removal of the team's merchandise from Wal-Mart, Target, and Dick's Sporting Goods' websites last week, and FedEx threatening to remove corporate signage from their stadium until the name is changed.
See the team's full statement below.