The controversy over the Washington Redskins name and logo is decades old, but the debate has only become more heated. A few times, Native Americans in support of the Redskins’ name and associated images have been called "new Uncle Toms.”
The Stowe Center addresses the transformation of Harriet Beecher Stowe’s character “Uncle Tom” from a strong, pious, Christian man into the often-used racial slur today. Those called an “Uncle Tom” are seen as people betraying their race by taking on the characteristics or performing the actions seemingly typical of another race. Among those that have been called an “Uncle Tom” in recent years are President Barack Obama, Martin Luther King Jr., Maya Angelou, and Oprah Winfrey, to name a few.
CBS Sports columnist Mike Freeman argues, “Instead of a stereotypical Indian wearing war paint, the mascot can be a Sambo-like dude smacking his lips on some watermelon. What? That offends you? Seems ridiculous? The Redskins caricature is just as stereotypical and ugly.”
Bob Burns said the following: “Let me be clear: The racial slur ‘redskins’ is not okay with me. It’s never going to be okay with me. It’s inappropriate, damaging and racist. In the memory of our Blackfeet relatives, it’s time to change the name.”
What do you think of the Washington team’s name? What do you think the ramifications of changing the name would be? The Washington Redskins are not the only team that uses Native American slurs or imagery on their logos. Why do you think the appropriation of Native American culture is still acceptable? What can we do as a society to enact more inclusive and respectful branding?
No comments:
Post a Comment