A Native American group has filed a federal lawsuit against the Washington Commanders Monday for defamation, civil conspiracy, and civil rights violations for their role in suppressing Native American history. They say they want the franchise to return to its traditional nickname of ‘Redskins.’
Native Americans protest Redskins name in Minnesota (2015) | SCREENSHOT: Washington Post/YouTube
The history of the team and their relationship with the moniker is well-documented. In 2020, amid outcry that the name discriminated against indigenous people, the franchise announced that it was no longer going to be known as the Redskins. They then played as the ‘Washington Football Team’ during the 2020 and 2021 seasons before adopting the name ‘Washington Commanders’ in 2022.
The group, the Native American Guardians Association, is seeking $1.6 million in damages and “a seat at the table to share Native American history.”
“Commanders is a fitting name for oppressors,” the suit stated, pointing out the argument as to why the old nickname was more fitting. “The name ‘Redskins’ carries deep cultural, historical, and emotional significance, honoring the bravery, resilience, and warrior spirit associated with Native American culture,” the NAGA complaint states.
“The powerful few, do not get to have a monopoly on the narrative. They cannot eradicate Native American history from the hearts and minds of Americans.”
According to their website, the North American Guardians Association (NAGA) lists itself as a “non-profit organization advocating for increased education about Natives, especially in public educational institutions, and greater recognition of Native American Heritage through the high profile venues of sports and other public platforms.”
Recently, Washington Commanders Team President Jason Wright addressed the movement by saying that the idea of reverting back to the old name and logo is “not being considered.”
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