Commanders' new logo sparks response from Native American groups
USA Today • • sports
Key Points:
- The Washington Commanders unveiled a new alternate logo featuring a spear intertwined with the team's "W," which has sparked criticism from many Native American organizations and activists who view it as a harmful continuation of Native stereotypes.
- The Association on American Indian Affairs and the National Congress of American Indians condemned the logo for perpetuating offensive imagery, while Native activist Suzan Harjo called the move disingenuous and a nod to the team's controversial past.
- The Native American Guardians Association (NAGA) expressed support for the new design, seeing it as a respectful inclusion of Native imagery, though other groups like Not In Our Honor strongly oppose it.
- Social psychologist Stephanie Fryberg and Harvard professor Philip Deloria warned that the logo could cause psychological harm by reinforcing stereotypes and criticized the team for attempting to revive a problematic history.
- Commanders president Mark Clouse defended the use of the spear, stating it had been part of recent marketing efforts and will appear on alternate uniforms and merchandise, emphasizing the team's commitment to the design despite mixed reactions.
