OPINION:
I certainly can see how the name might be deemed as offensive to American Indiana; no sporting team would dare to use “brownskins” or “whiteskins” as their mascot. However, as a lifelong Redskins fan and season ticket holder I can only wonder if there is a double standard at play, particularly when the debate crosses over into the political spectrum.
The origin of our 46th state’s name, Oklahoma, is derived from two Choctaw Indian words meaning “red people.” How is this not as offensive, or even more offensive, than the name Redskins? Our country would never name a state “black people” or “white people,” so why is it okay for us to call one of our great states “red people”?
If our president and other elected officials suggest that the owner of the Washington Redskins should consider changing the team’s name, those same elected officials should at least consider changing the name of our 46th state.
CHRIS HABERLIN
Richmond
Please read our comment policy before commenting.