NFL responds to U.S. Senators' call to remove Redskins name

Surprise, surprise. The NFL has issued a response to the U.S. Senators who this morning called for the league to get rid of the Redskins nickname. Through spokesman Brian McCarthy, the league issued a statement that defends the use of the name.

First:

"We have not received the letter, but the NFL has long demonstrated a commitment to progressive leadership on issues of diversity and inclusion, both on and off the field."

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Okay, whatever.

Second:

"The intent of the team’s name has always been to present a strong, positive and respectful image."

Umm…what? A “strong, positive and respectful image?” This is a complete joke. That the league continues to charade the idea that Redskins can be used respectfully is downright embarrassing. Oneida Nation CEO Ray Halbritter said, in his own statement, “The R-word is a dictionary defined racial slur.” It’s a “dictionary defined racial slur,” and yet the NFL still claims to use it respectfully. Enough. There is no respectful way to use a slur.

Then, the NFL concluded with this:

"The name is not used by the team or the NFL in any other context, though we respect those that view it differently."

“We respect those that view it differently.” First of all this is a bullshit line from the, “sorry if we offended you” camp. Second of all, the NFL in no way whatsoever respects those who view it differently.

If they truly respected those who view it differently, the name would have been changed years ago.

Instead, the NFL continues to laugh in the face of Native Americans by using a racial slur for their people as a nickname for a football team.

Grow up, Roger Goodell, and do better.

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NFL responds to U.S. Senators’ call to remove Redskins name

By Jack Maloney | May 22, 2014