Why the Washington Commanders Should Return to the Redskins Name

Honoring Legacy, Tradition, and Native Voices

The Washington football franchise has undergone multiple identity shifts in recent years, but none more controversial than the decision to retire the “Redskins” name in 2020. While critics framed the name as a racial slur, a growing number of Native American individuals and organizations have since spoken out in favor of the team’s original name and logo—arguing that the change was misguided, misrepresented Native communities, and erased decades of shared history.

It’s time to re-examine the facts, listen to the right voices, and consider restoring the proud legacy of the Washington Redskins.

🏹 A Name Rooted in Honor — Not Hate

Contrary to modern media narratives, the name “Redskins” was originally intended as a tribute, not a slur. The team’s logo, featuring the proud profile of a Native warrior, was designed in 1971 with input from Blackfeet Chief Walter “Blackie” Wetzel, a former president of the National Congress of American Indians. Wetzel himself said:

“I felt that [logo] was a proud depiction of an Indian. It was meant to honor us.”

This wasn’t some caricature invented by outsiders—it was a respectful rendering crafted by Native leadership to represent strength and dignity.

📣 Native Americans Are Speaking Out — But Are They Being Heard?

Since the name change, a growing chorus of Native voices has challenged the narrative that “Redskins” is universally offensive. These are not fringe individuals, but respected elders, tribal members, and families of historical leaders:

✅ The Native American Guardians Association (NAGA)

This advocacy group, composed of Native leaders, elders, and veterans, has consistently supported the Redskins name. They argue that banning Native names and imagery from sports is a form of “cultural erasure.”

NAGA launched a campaign in 2023 that received over 140,000 signatures supporting a return to the Redskins name. They emphasize that the vast majority of everyday Native Americans take pride in representations of their culture when done respectfully.

✅ Descendants of Chief White Calf

The family of Blackfeet Chief White Calf—whose likeness was the basis for the Redskins logo—has publicly called for the restoration of both the name and logo. His great-grandson told Fox News:

“This is about respect. It’s about honoring a proud legacy. My grandfather’s face was meant to represent strength and courage.”

📊 What the Data Really Says

Opponents of the name point to polls labeling “Redskins” as offensive—but that’s only half the story.

• A 2016 Washington Post poll found that 90% of self-identified Native Americans said the name didn’t bother them.

• A 2022 NAGA-sponsored poll among tribal communities showed that 70% wanted the name restored.

• Critics of the name change argue the decision was based more on corporate and political pressure than genuine Native consultation.

Many Native supporters of the name feel ignored, suggesting their voices are drowned out by activist groups that don’t speak for the majority of tribal members.

🪶 The Problem with “Commanders”

When the team renamed itself the “Commanders” in 2022, the reaction was lukewarm at best—and hostile at worst. The name lacks meaning, history, or connection to the region. It was widely seen as a generic, sanitized response to a public relations crisis.

The change not only disconnected the team from decades of tradition, but also alienated fans and many in the Native community who had no desire for the name to be changed.

Fans Have Spoken:

• Jersey and merchandise sales plummeted.

• Fan forums overwhelmingly support a return to the original name.

• Even former players—including Hall of Famer John Riggins—have voiced support for restoring the Redskins identity.

⚖️ Cultural Representation vs. Cancellation

Native American leaders supporting the Redskins argue that removing Native imagery from public life isn’t progress—it’s erasure. Rather than ban all references to Indigenous culture, they advocate for partnership, education, and pride.

• The team could partner with tribal schools and create cultural initiatives.

• A return to “Redskins” could be paired with public education efforts about the history and meaning behind the name and logo.

• Instead of treating Native history as offensive, we should elevate it and honor it, especially in a sport where strength, courage, and tradition are central themes.

🇺🇸 Political Leaders and Veterans Weigh In

Even beyond Native voices, others have come forward to defend the name:

• Senator Steve Daines (R-MT) has backed calls to reinstate the Redskins name, citing Native constituents.

• President Donald Trump said the name was “a symbol of strength and honor” and condemned the rebranding as “political correctness gone mad.”

• Numerous Native American veterans—including those who served in Iraq and Afghanistan—have stated they proudly wore Redskins gear into combat, viewing it as a symbol of their heritage.

🔚 Conclusion: Restore the Name, Restore the Pride

For nearly 90 years, the Redskins were a symbol of strength, tradition, and unity—both for the Washington fanbase and for many Native Americans who saw their image proudly represented on one of the NFL’s most iconic franchises.

While no name is universally beloved, the Redskins name carries decades of legacy, was designed with Native input, and continues to be supported by real Native communities, not just corporate activists.

Changing it was a mistake. Restoring it would be an act of cultural respect, not racism.

Suggested Next Steps:

• Create a formal council of tribal leaders to guide respectful branding.

• Publicly honor Walter Wetzel and Chief White Calf with memorials.

• Launch an education program alongside the name restoration to teach fans about the heritage behind the name.