A group of House Democrats, led by Delegate Eleanor Holmes Norton (D., D.C.), introduced a bill on Wednesday to void any existing trademarks that include the word “Redskins,” and to prevent the term from being trademarked in the future. While it is unlikely to ever be brought to a vote, the bill appears to be the latest effort by politicians and activists to force the Washington Redskins franchise to change its team name, an ongoing controversy in the nation’s capital.
Earlier this month, a panel of three federal judges heard arguments about whether the franchise’s trademark should be revoked because it is potentially offensive to American Indians. If the panel rules that “Redskins” cannot be trademarked, it would allow other businesses to use the team’s name on apparel and memorabilia, likely cutting into the team’s profits.
Although the team has widespread local support, it has come under criticism for its name. “I am a fan of the Redskins. I’m just not a fan of their name,” Norton told The Hill. In January, the city’s mayor, Vincent Gray, said that there would have to be a discussion about the team changing its name if the Redskins were to build a new stadium in Washington, D.C.; the team’s current stadium is in Maryland.
Via Weasel Zippers.