Fact Check: The Washington commanders are changing back to the redskins

The Claim: "The Washington Commanders are changing back to the Redskins"

Introduction

The claim that the Washington Commanders, an NFL franchise, are reverting to their former name, the Redskins, has gained traction in various discussions and media outlets. This assertion comes amidst ongoing debates about the team's branding and the cultural implications of its name. However, the current ownership and management have publicly stated that the name will not change back to the Redskins.

What We Know

1. The Washington Commanders rebranded from the Redskins in 2022, following a significant backlash against the old name, which many considered offensive to Native Americans 12.
2. In 2023, the Native American Guardians Association (NAGA) launched a petition advocating for a return to the Redskins name, which garnered approximately 130,000 signatures 24.
3. Josh Harris, the controlling owner of the Commanders, has explicitly stated that the team name is not changing and will remain the Commanders. This statement was made after he acquired the team in 2023 39.
4. Despite the petition and public interest in the old name, the team's management has consistently rejected the idea of reverting to the Redskins, citing a commitment to the current branding 47.
5. The Commanders have indicated that they may sell merchandise featuring the old logo in limited circumstances, but this does not imply a name change 6.

Analysis

The claim regarding a name change back to the Redskins is primarily fueled by a combination of fan petitions and public sentiment. However, the evidence from credible sources indicates that the team's ownership is firmly against such a change.

Source Evaluation

• Wikipedia Articles 12: While Wikipedia can be a useful starting point for information, it is important to note that the content is user-generated and may not always be up-to-date or fully reliable. The articles provide a general overview but should be supplemented with more authoritative sources.

• AP News 3: The Associated Press is a reputable news organization known for its journalistic standards. The statement from Josh Harris is a direct quote, adding credibility to the claim that the name will not change.

• Los Angeles Times 4: This source provides a direct statement from a top partner in the Commanders' ownership group, reinforcing the position against reverting to the Redskins name. The Los Angeles Times is generally considered a reliable source, though it is important to consider potential biases in sports reporting.

• Newsweek 5: This article discusses the ongoing debates and sentiments surrounding the name change but does not provide new evidence supporting the claim that a change is imminent.

• CBSSports.com 6: This source discusses the long-term decision regarding the team's name and merchandise, indicating that while the Commanders name will remain, there is some flexibility in merchandise offerings.

• Sporting News 7: This article discusses the speculation around the name change but ultimately supports the idea that the Commanders will not revert to the Redskins, aligning with statements from ownership.

• Native News Online 8: This source highlights the perspectives of Native leaders regarding the name change discussions, which adds context but may also reflect a particular viewpoint that could influence its objectivity.

What Additional Information Would Be Helpful

To further evaluate the claim, additional information could include:

• Official statements or interviews from team executives beyond ownership, such as marketing or public relations representatives.
• Data on fan sentiment beyond petitions, including surveys or polls that capture a broader range of opinions.
• Insights from cultural experts or Native American organizations regarding the implications of the name change discussions.

Conclusion

Verdict: False

The claim that the Washington Commanders are changing back to the Redskins is false. Key evidence supporting this conclusion includes explicit statements from the team's ownership, particularly from controlling owner Josh Harris, who has confirmed that the team name will remain the Commanders. Despite a petition advocating for a return to the Redskins name, the management has consistently rejected this idea, emphasizing their commitment to the current branding.

It is important to note that while there is public interest and sentiment surrounding the old name, the ownership's stance remains firm against any change. This situation highlights the complexities of branding in sports, especially when cultural sensitivities are involved.

However, the available evidence does have limitations. The public's desire for a name change, as evidenced by the petition, reflects a segment of fan sentiment that may not be fully captured in the ownership's statements. Additionally, further insights from cultural experts or broader fan surveys could provide a more nuanced understanding of the implications of this issue.

Readers are encouraged to critically evaluate information and consider multiple perspectives when assessing claims related to sensitive topics such as team branding and cultural representation.

Sources

1. Washington Redskins name controversy - Wikipedia. Link
2. Washington Commanders - Wikipedia. Link
3. Controlling owner Josh Harris says the Washington Commanders name is ... - AP News. Link
4. Commanders ownership partner says old Redskins name won't return - Los Angeles Times. Link
5. Are the Washington Commanders Changing Their Name Back to Redskins? What We Know - Newsweek. Link
6. Commanders appear to make long-term decision about team's name following two changes in four years - CBSSports.com. Link
7. Will Commanders bring back Redskins nickname? Why some think Washington's football team could change its name - Sporting News. Link
8. Native Leaders Chime in on Washington Commanders Name Change Conversations - Currents. Link
9. Controlling owner Josh Harris says Washington Commanders ... - NFL.com. Link
10. Washington announces decision on 'Redskins' return - The Comeback. Link