Originally known as the Washington Redskins, the Washington Commanders chose to update their name in 2020. And if you don’t know what is even that, well, then you must be living under a rock, or you don’t live in the United States. Anyway, it is actually an American football team that is like super famous in the country. And what’s with the name change? Well, simply put, this change followed mounting public demand to solve racial justice concerns as many felt the word “Redskins” was a racial insult directed against Native Americans. This is precisely what has led to this Washington Commanders Redskins Lawsuit, and even the general public is divided in two groups regarding what is going on with this lawsuit. Let’s find out.
Why This Washington Commanders Redskins Lawsuit Started In The First Place?
If you don’t know this yet, well, the very legal action against the Washington Commanders was actually taken by the Native American Guardians Association (NAGA), who sued in the U.S. District Court of North Dakota. Targeting the Commanders, team owner Josh Harris, employee Matthew Laux, and the National Congress of American Indians (NCAI), the lawsuit claims Nonprofit NAGA says the Commanders disparaged them and plotted to stop their attempts to reclaim the “Redskins” identity.
What NAGA is Claiming
Well, a number of significant allegations are included in the complaint filed by NAGA and you must hear those because they hold some weight, you know? Specifically, though, they claim that the team referred to their group as “fake” Native Americans, which has caused damage to their reputation. In addition, they allege that the Commanders and NCAI are conspiring to bury their voices and disregard those who advocate for the previous name of the team. These activities, according to NAGA, constitute a violation of their civil rights, and they are requesting damages in excess of one million dollars.
What’s Been NAGA’s Perspective on the Name?
NAGA claims that the original “Redskins” moniker was designed to pay respect to Native American background. They cite studies, such as one by the Washington Post, demonstrating that most Native Americans did not find the word objectionable at all. NAGA thinks “Redskins” expresses respect for Native American culture, bravery, and resiliency. Changing the name to “Commanders,” they contend, has eliminated a major cultural icon and disconnected the team from its past.
The Commanders’ Side of the Story
The Washington Commanders have responded by separating themselves from remarks made by Matthew Laux, an employee whose authorization to speak for the team was denied. The Commanders stress that selecting the new name was a careful procedure meant to help one avoid a phrase generally considered objectionable. They think their principles and dedication to diversity better capture the new moniker.
What’s Happening Now and What Could Come Next
The lawsuit, though, is still in its early phases, and numerous legal procedures are to be expected. The result may have major effects on the Washington Commanders and other companies dealing with comparable problems. Should NAGA win this case, there could be debates on reevaluating the name change. The Commanders have made it very evident, nevertheless, that they do not now want to go back to the previous moniker.
