‘Redskins is a Powerful Name’ – Delving Into the Controversy [Video]

The Washington Redskins are no stranger to controversy over the past few years as they have come under attack by the government and media outlets to change their name.

The reason for this bombardment is that these organizations view the team name as a derogatory or racist slur that offends Native Americans as does the team logo. In 2013, a letter was written by 10 members of Congress, to team owner Dan Snyder asking him to consider changing the name. Snyder insists that "We will never change the name of the team."

Polls taken on the matter have shown a variety of results.

On June 18, 2014, the United States Patent and Trademark Office cancelled the Washington Redskins trademark license for a second time, because the name is “disparaging to Native Americans." This doesn't mean that the Washington Redskins organization has to change their name but may have issues cashing in on merchandise sales.

There are steps being taken to educate the public on the history of the name and mascot as can be seen on the website RedskinsFacts.com.

There is also an effort being made to offer support and genuine opportunities for Tribal communities. For example, in March of this year Daniel Snyder announced on the Redskins website, the creation of the Washington Redskins Original Americans Foundation, which will aim "to tackle the troubling realities facing so many tribes across our country."  Read that letter here.

For me as a lifelong Washington Redskins fan, I see the name and logo as signs of tradition and loyalty. I see the face on our helmets as a strong Native American warrior. That strength and spirit joining our team on the field and protecting the players as they go into battle.

Since all of this started, I've also noticed that no one seems to be paying attention to the Native Americans coming forth to protect and defend the name. A new video released on Monday allows these supporters a chance to be heard.