Wednesday, June 12, 2013

NFL Commissioner Defends Team Name

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A letter sent by NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell was aimed at defending the “Redskins” name to a group of Congress members.

In the June 5th dated letter, Goodell writes:

                The Washington Redskins name has ... from its origin represented a positive meaning distinct from any disparagement that could be viewed in some other context. For the team's millions of fans and customers, who represent one of America's most ethnically and geographically diverse fan bases, the name is a unifying force that stands for strength, courage, pride and respect.

In May, ten members of Congress urged the Redskins to change their name due to many Native Americans taking offense to it.

U.S. Representative Betty McCollum was one of those who contacted Goodell about changing the name. 

In response to his letter she wrote on her Twitter:

                Disappointed in NFL’s attempt to justify a racial slur. Native Americans deserve to be treated with respect & dignity. 



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