Native Groups Condemn Trump's Call to Reinstate Redskins Name

Native American groups criticized President Trump's push to restore the NFL team's old Redskins name, calling it harmful and disrespectful. Trump, citing support from Native communities, threatened to block a new D.C. stadium unless the change occurs. The debate highlights ongoing tensions around Indigenous representation in sports.

Two Native American groups strongly criticized U.S. President Donald Trump on Monday for threatening to block the construction of a new football stadium in Washington, D.C., unless the local NFL team reverts to its controversial former name, Redskins. The team has been known as the Commanders since 2022.

Trump posted on Truth Social that there is "a big clamoring" for the team's original name, arguing that "our great Indian people" want it restored. He also called on Major League Baseball's Cleveland Guardians, previously known as the Indians, to revert to their prior name. However, Native American groups contend that such mascots and names are caricatures and disrespectful to their cultures. The Association on American Indian Affairs stated Native nations deserve respect, highlighting decades-long criticism of the Redskins name.

Despite Trump's claims, the National Congress of American Indians opposes the revival of what it describes as racist mascots. They assert such actions are an affront to Tribal sovereignty. While Congress oversees D.C. under its home-rule law, Trump lacks direct authority over the stadium project. The NFL team's move back to the city is planned for 2030 with no official comment from involved parties in response to Trump's statements.

(With inputs from agencies.)