The Washington Redskins said Friday they will do a “thorough review” of the team’s name, which has long been condemned as an anti-Indigenous slur.
The news comes a day after FedEx, which owns the naming rights to the field where the team plays, requested that the team change its name.
“In light of recent events around our country and feedback from our community, the Washington Redskins are announcing the team will undergo a thorough review of the team’s name. This review formalizes the initial discussions the team has been having with the league in recent weeks,” the team said in a statement.
Dan Snyder, the owner of the Redskins, said he wants to take into account the “proud tradition and history of the franchise” but also wants to include input from others including the organization, the community and the National Football League.
“This issue is of personal importance to me and I look forward to working closely with Dan Snyder to make sure we continue the mission of honoring and supporting Native Americans and our Military,” said head coach Ron Rivera in a statement.
NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell said in a statement that he is “supportive of this important step.”
This is a breaking story; check back for updates.
