The use of Indigenous culture has been within sport franchises and merchandise for an awfully long time. After years of protestors and socialists fighting for Cleveland’s MLB franchise to change their name, they finally have. The city of Cleveland has been known as the “Indians” since 1915. However, as for the upcoming 2022 MLB season, the organization will now be recognized as the Cleveland Guardians. The new logo and name were announced through a two minute video with famous actor Tom Hanks as the narrator. The organization followed up with a statement saying: “Our fans are at the heart of this decision.”
Dennis J. Banks, one of many Native American activists, states: “Great American pastime is sports. Racism should not have a foothold in sports, nor should athletics give birth to anything other than pride.” So, when the change was announced, many people felt it was overdue. On the other hand, some individuals apposed the decision, specifically former president Donald Trump scrutinized the choice: “Oh no!” Trump tweeted. “What is going on? This is not good news, even for ‘Indians.’ Cancel culture at work!”
Native Americans’ have found these discriminatory team names, logos and mascots extremely racist and view it as a racial slur towards their culture. Along with Cleveland’s name, the hostile logo/mascot Chief Wahoo had been connected to the franchise since the start. The cycle for change started when the franchise reported it would resign its long-term mascot and logo. A square “C” was taken in its place. Since the modification of Cleveland’s baseball team, other sports team names have come up in discussion including the Kansas City Chiefs, the Chicago Blackhawks, and the Atlanta Braves. However, these teams have made it clear, stating that they are not planning to change their names anytime soon.
WadeR
Sport, Not Games ⚽ 