The Washington Commanders have reiterated their stance that the team will not be returning to its former “Redskins” name, a decision that has frustrated a portion of their fan base. Patrick Arthur, a marketing executive for the team, explained that while they respect the feelings of fans who disagree with the rebrand, the name change is permanent.
The “Redskins” name, in use for nearly 90 years, was abandoned in 2020 in response to activist pressure during the height of cultural protests. Despite surveys showing that 90% of Native Americans did not oppose the team’s brand, the name was scrapped. Now, some fans are calling for its return, but Arthur confirmed that this is not on the table. “We’re not going back to the old name. That’s not something we’re able to do,” he said in an interview with The Washington Post.
Arthur reassured fans that the team remains committed to honoring its history and traditions, even though the name won’t be coming back. He encouraged fans who have stopped supporting the team to return, stating, “We would love to have them back when they’re ready.”
The move to discard the Redskins name has been controversial, particularly as the family of Blackfeet Chief John Two Guns White Calf, who inspired the original logo, has joined fans in calling for a return to the old brand. However, the Commanders’ leadership, which includes Magic Johnson and Mitchell Rales, has consistently avoided reopening the issue, opting instead to promote newer traditions.
To bridge the gap between the past and present, the Commanders are planning to retire the number of cornerback Darrell Green during a game against the Carolina Panthers. Still, many fans feel that important aspects of the team’s identity are being left behind, despite the effort to honor past players and achievements.