The debate surrounding the use of Native American imagery in sports team branding, particularly with teams like the Washington Commanders (formerly the Washington Redskins) and the Cleveland Indians, has reignited political and cultural tensions.
As discussions continue, key players like Montana U.S. Senator Steve Daines and the Native American Guardians Association (NAGA) argue for the restoration of these symbols, while others, including Native American activists, voice strong opposition.
Senator Daines has supported the idea of reinstating the Redskins logo, which was created by Blackfeet tribal member Blackie Wetzel in 1971, emphasizing its historical and cultural significance. However, Daines’ recent move to lift a blockade on funding for the Commanders’ stadium renovation, after reaching an agreement on the logo’s continued use in certain contexts, has drawn criticism from NAGA. They argue that it represents a missed opportunity to restore the logo fully and reclaim Native American imagery in sports.
Polls on the issue show differing opinions within Native American communities. A 2016 Washington Post poll suggested that most Native Americans were not offended by the Redskins name, while a 2020 study found a nearly equal split, with around half of Native Americans reporting offense. These contrasting views highlight the diversity of opinions within the community regarding the use of indigenous symbols in popular culture.
NAGA President Tony Henson, who advocates for the protection of Native American-themed logos, refers to the ongoing movement away from such symbols as a form of “modern-day Indian removal,” fearing the erasure of Native American presence in mainstream culture. Meanwhile, figures like Wetzel’s grandson, Don Wetzel Jr., who helped create the Redskins logo, acknowledge the strong cultural impact of the image but are divided on the full restoration of the name, suggesting alternatives like holding Native American heritage events rather than reinstating the Redskins moniker.
The controversy also extends to a wider debate over the line between honoring Native American culture and perpetuating harmful stereotypes. While some see the imagery as a form of pride and historical recognition, others view it as exploitative and insensitive.
Ultimately, the future of Native American-themed sports logos is a complex issue that intertwines cultural, political, and personal views, with no clear consensus on how to balance respect, representation, and cultural sensitivity in modern sports branding.