The Washington Commanders- an NFL team with a rich but controversial history- have been through a series of changes recently. Their name change wasn’t just about rebranding; it was about addressing decades of criticism, responding to societal pressures, and embracing a more inclusive identity.
Let’s break down the story behind why the team decided to leave their old name behind and how they landed on their new one.
The Name That Sparked Decades Of Debate
For most of its history, the team was known as the Washington Redskins, a name it had carried since the 1930s. Before moving to Washington, the franchise began as the Boston Braves. The term “redskin,” defined by Merriam-Webster as an offensive slur “used as an insulting and contemptuous term for an American Indian,” drew criticism as far back as the 1960s. Native American groups and individuals highlighted the derogatory nature of the name and its logo, which depicted a Native American wearing a headdress.
One legacy. One unified future.
— Washington Commanders (@Commanders) February 2, 2022
We are the Washington Commanders #TakeCommand pic.twitter.com/Eav9NOV5Mm
Despite lawsuits and growing calls for change, the franchise’s owners resisted. Dan Snyder, who took ownership of the team in 1999, famously vowed never to alter the name, stating he would “never” give in to the demands of activists. For decades, the organization maintained its controversial identity, despite growing awareness of its problematic connotations.
The Catalyst For Change: George Floyd’s Death
Everything changed in 2020 following the murder of George Floyd by Minneapolis police officers. The tragedy sparked nationwide protests against racial injustice and systemic racism. Amid this heightened awareness, attention turned once again to institutions perpetuating racist stereotypes- including the Washington NFL team.
#BREAKING: An independent autopsy commissioned for George Floyd’s family finds that he died of asphyxiation due to neck and back compression. pic.twitter.com/S5S8EJu63S
— Jenn Franco KESQ (@jennfranconews) June 1, 2020
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Corporate sponsors like Nike and Pepsi joined the conversation, threatening to withdraw financial support if the team refused to rebrand. FedEx, the sponsor of the team’s stadium at the time, also called for immediate action. Faced with significant economic pressure, Snyder finally relented. The organization announced it would retire the Redskins name and logo, initiating a search for a new identity.
The Transitional Era: Washington Football Team
In July 2020, the franchise adopted the temporary name “Washington Football Team” (WFT) as a placeholder. This period marked a departure from its 87-year history under the Redskins moniker. While fans and critics alike debated the generic nature of the interim name, it was always intended to be a short-term solution. The team invited fans to participate in the rebranding process by submitting suggestions for a permanent name.
Choosing The Washington Commanders: A Nod To Washington’s Military Ties
Over the course of 19 months, the franchise sifted through more than 40,000 name suggestions. On February 2, 2022, the organization unveiled its new name: the Washington Commanders. The choice pays tribute to the U.S. capital’s deep connections to the military and reflects a desire to build a forward-looking identity while acknowledging the team’s geographic and cultural roots.
The rebrand represented more than just a name change; it was a statement of the franchise’s commitment to inclusivity and cultural sensitivity. By retiring the Redskins name, the Washington Commanders signaled a willingness to evolve and adapt to modern societal values.
Practice picks@Bwagz | #RaiseHail pic.twitter.com/aHHGMYfTRC
— Washington Commanders (@Commanders) September 20, 2024
Fan Reactions
Despite the effort to establish a fresh identity, fan opinions about the Washington Commanders name remain divided. A 2023 survey revealed that 58% of supporters did not favor the new name. Some fans argued for a return to a more traditional or fan-suggested moniker, while others focused on the need for on-field success to redefine the franchise’s reputation.
Looking Ahead: Success Could Redefine Perceptions
Within the organization, the focus now lies on achieving success on the field. Winning has the power to change perceptions, and banners proclaiming “Super Bowl Champions: Washington Commanders” could do wonders for rallying fan support. The team’s recent postseason success, including a victory over the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in January 2024, signals a promising future. As the Washington Commanders prepare for the NFC Conference finals against the Philadelphia Eagles, the potential for glory could solidify their place in NFL history under the new name.
Also Read: Washington Commanders Are Moving After Major Stadium Bill Passes
