The Oneida Indian Nation has kicked off a campaign to pressure Washington’s pro football team into changing its name. “Using a slur and making a mascot out of our indigenous culture has no place in such a society,” says Oneida Nation Representative Ray Halbritter. “We believe that with the help of our fellow professional football fans, we can get the NFL to realize the error of its ways and make a very simple change.”
When DC’s NFL team opens its season against the Eagles at home this Monday, a “Change the Mascot” radio spot will run on all-news WTOP and sports-talk WJFK. When the team goes on the road, so will the radio campaign to end use of this trademarked racial slur.
Billionaire team owner Dan Snyder claims Native Americans don’t see the name as derogatory, but the Oneidas see otherwise. Judging by coverage of this issue in Indian Country Today, they are not alone.
More:
“Oneida Indian Nation Launches “Change the Mascot” Ad Campaign Against D.C.’s NFL Team,” OneidaIndianNation.com
UPDATES:
“So what if ESPN refused to use the R-word?” Robert Lipsyte, ESPN Ombudsman
“Bill Simmons Omits Washington Football Team’s Name From Grantland Piece,” DCist
“Enough: An open letter to Dan Snyder,” Dave Zirin, Grantland
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Tags: Change the Mascot, Dan Snyder, DC, football, NFL, Oneida, racial slurs, racism, sports, Washington DC
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