The Washington Commanders, a prominent NFL team, has gone through a significant transformation in recent years. The team’s journey to its current identity is marked by controversy, activism, and a desire to embrace a more inclusive culture.
In 2022, the Washington Commanders officially rebranded from their previous identity as the Washington Football Team, which had been adopted in 2020. This significant change marked a departure from a long history that began with the team being known as the Washington Redskins since the 1930s. The original name, along with its associated logo featuring a Native American wearing a headdress, faced increasing scrutiny and criticism, particularly from Native American communities, starting in the 1960s.
The term “redskin,” as defined by the Merriam-Webster dictionary, is considered an offensive slur, described as “used as an insulting and contemptuous term for an American Indian.” Despite decades of pressure from various groups advocating for a name change, the franchise, under the ownership of Dan Snyder since 1999, resisted these calls. Lawsuits highlighting the name’s association with systemic racism were ignored, and the team’s management remained steadfast in maintaining the name.
The turning point came in 2020, following the tragic murder of George Floyd, which ignited widespread protests and discussions about racial injustice across the United States. This national outcry shifted the focus back to the team’s name, prompting major sponsors such as Nike and Pepsi to threaten withdrawal of their financial support unless action was taken. Additionally, FedEx, the naming sponsor of the team’s stadium, urged for a name change, amplifying the pressure on the franchise.
In light of this growing economic and social pressure, Snyder ultimately decided to explore new naming options. During this transitional phase, the team adopted the temporary moniker “Washington Football Team,” which served as a placeholder while fans were invited to contribute suggestions for a new name. The franchise received an impressive array of over 40,000 proposals from its supporters.
After a thorough selection process, the name “Washington Commanders” was announced on February 2, 2022. This choice pays homage to the military ties of the U.S. capital, signaling a new era for the team. The rebranding represents more than just a name change; it encapsulates the franchise’s commitment to embracing a more inclusive identity while acknowledging its complex history.
