The Washington Redskins are probably going to have to change their team name at some point in the near future. Even though Redskins owner Daniel Snyder has refused to entertain the idea of changing it because, you know, TRADITION, it's clear that there are some Native Americans out there who are offended by the term "Redskins." Not all. But there are some. So the NFL is going to have to take some action sooner than later as it pertains to the Redskins' name.
Today is not that day, though. Because earlier this afternoon, USA Today Sports asked Roger Goodell—who has defended the term "Redskins" in the past—whether he would actually feel comfortable calling an American Indian a "Redskin." He dodged the question the best he could, but not before revealing that he thinks the term "Redskins" is actually "honorable."
"I spent the last year talking to many of the leaders of the Native American community," he said. "We are listening and we are trying to make sure we understand the issues. But let me remind you: This is the name of a football team, a football team that has had that name for 80 years. That has presented the name in a way that is honorable to Native Americans. We recognize that many don't agree with the name. And we respect that. But if you look at the numbers, including the Native American communities, the Native American community poll, nine out of 10 prefer the name—eight of 10 Americans in the general population would not like us to change the name. So we are listening and being respectful to people who disagree."
Translation: The Redskins' team name isn't going anywhere…for now. Because, well, like we said earlier, tradition. But the NFL can't possibly keep this up forever, can they?
[via USA Today Sports]
