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Opinion: A shameful day in America with 'Redskins'
Wednesday, May 20, 2009
Filed Under: Opinion | Sports

"Last Friday, in a judicial decision that hinged on a legal technicality, the U.S. Court of Appeals in Washington, D.C., upheld the right of the local pro football team to keep its unconscionable nickname.

Gloated team attorney Bob Raskopf, “It’s a great day for the Redskins and their fans and their owner, Dan Snyder.”

Alas, it was another shameful day for America.

In clinging to the most racially offensive moniker held by a major U.S. professional sports team since the Emancipation Proclamation – yes, I know, since forever – the franchise continues to offend some Native Americans and assault the sensibilities of a citizenry that should be long past such insensitive and shallow depictions.

How can a large majority of us not be offended? Imagine trying to explain “Redskins” to a foreign visitor or a time-traveler from the future? Every time I say the word, I throw up in my mouth a little and wonder why there is no widespread outrage."

Get the Story:
Michael Silver,: No excuses: Redskins need a new nickname (Yahoo! Sports 5/19)

D.C. Circuit Decision:
Pro-Football v. Harjo (May 15, 2009)

Related Stories:
Court sides with 'Redskins' in trademark dispute (5/18)

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