Sports teams around the world have long been symbols of local pride, history, and community identity. However, many of these teams have also carried names that, over time, have been recognized as offensive or rooted in racist stereotypes.
The movement to rename sports teams has gained momentum as society becomes more aware of the importance of respect, cultural sensitivity, and inclusiveness. Changing a team’s name is not just about rebranding but about acknowledging past wrongs and embracing a more equitable future.
These decisions often spark intense discussions about tradition versus progress, but they ultimately reflect a collective desire to uplift marginalized voices and promote unity through sports.
Several high-profile cases stand out where teams have chosen to change their names in response to criticism about racism and cultural insensitivity. From professional leagues to college sports, these transformations highlight the evolving relationship between sports and social justice.
Understanding the history, controversy, and impact of these changes offers valuable insight into how sports can lead positive cultural change.
The Washington Football Team’s Journey to a New Identity
The Washington Football Team, formerly known as the Washington Redskins, faced decades of controversy over its name, which many considered a racial slur against Native Americans. After years of protests, legal battles, and public pressure, the team finally decided to drop the name in 2020.
For decades, Native American groups and activists argued that the term “Redskins” was harmful and perpetuated stereotypes. The debate intensified as more corporations and sponsors urged the team to reconsider.
The organization initially resisted but eventually announced the retirement of the name, opting for the temporary moniker “Washington Football Team” during the transition.
This change marked a watershed moment in sports history. It symbolized a broader reckoning with racial insensitivity in sports branding.
The team also pledged to engage with Native communities to select a new permanent name that would honor the region’s heritage respectfully.
Impact and Public Response
- Major sponsors like FedEx pressured the team to change the name.
- Native American groups expressed cautious optimism about the decision.
- The temporary name sparked mixed reactions but was largely seen as a step forward.
“This is a victory for Native Americans and for all those who value respect and dignity.” – Deborah Parker, Native American activist
Atlanta Braves and the Debate Over Native American Imagery
The Atlanta Braves have been another focal point in discussions about sports team names and racism. While the team has not changed its name, it has made significant moves to address concerns over its use of Native American imagery and mascots.
The Braves name itself is derived from a term historically used to describe Native American warriors. Critics argue that the team’s use of the tomahawk chop cheer and mascot perpetuates stereotypes and disrespects Native culture.
The Braves organization has taken steps to phase out some problematic imagery and engage with Native groups to promote awareness.
Despite ongoing debates, the Braves have not fully rebranded, highlighting the complexities involved in balancing tradition, fan identity, and cultural sensitivity. This case underscores how deeply ingrained such identities can be and the challenges in shifting public perception.
Actions Taken by the Braves
- Discontinued the use of the tomahawk chop during certain games.
- Removed controversial logos from merchandise.
- Collaborated with Native American groups to educate fans.
“Our goal is to honor Native American culture in a respectful way, not to offend.” – Atlanta Braves spokesperson
Cleveland Indians to Cleveland Guardians: A Landmark Change
The Cleveland Indians, one of baseball’s most recognizable franchises, changed their name to the Cleveland Guardians in 2021 after years of criticism. The former name and mascot, Chief Wahoo, were considered offensive caricatures.
The team’s decision came amid growing national conversations about racial justice and representation. The shift to “Guardians” reflects a desire to embrace a modern, inclusive identity while maintaining a connection to Cleveland’s heritage.
The name references the iconic Guardians of Traffic statues on the city’s Hope Memorial Bridge, symbolizing strength and protection.
This rebranding was widely praised as a thoughtful and meaningful response to concerns about cultural appropriation and racial insensitivity. It also demonstrated how sports teams can successfully navigate change while respecting their fanbase.
Comparing the Old and New Identities
| Aspect | Cleveland Indians | Cleveland Guardians |
| Name Origin | Native American themed | Local landmark inspiration |
| Mascot | Chief Wahoo (caricature) | No mascot, focus on symbolism |
| Public Reception | Controversial, seen as offensive | Generally positive, inclusive |
University of North Dakota Fighting Hawks: Moving Beyond Controversy
College sports teams have also wrestled with racist names and mascots. The University of North Dakota’s former nickname, the Fighting Sioux, became a target of criticism for its use of Native American imagery.
After intense debates and legal battles, the university retired the Fighting Sioux nickname in 2012. It temporarily used “North Dakota” as its athletic name before adopting the Fighting Hawks in 2015.
This new name was chosen through a community vote and seeks to unite the campus while respecting Native American concerns.
The change was challenging for many longtime supporters who felt a strong attachment to the Fighting Sioux identity. However, it ultimately represented a commitment to cultural sensitivity and inclusion in collegiate athletics.
Steps Taken During the Transition
- Engaged with tribal leaders and community members.
- Conducted surveys and voting for new nickname options.
- Phased out Native American imagery on uniforms and branding.
“The new name honors our spirit without disrespecting anyone’s heritage.” – University of North Dakota official
Toronto’s Former “Racers” and Indigenous Representation
While less widely known, some Canadian sports teams have also reconsidered names that invoked Indigenous stereotypes. Toronto’s former minor league baseball team, once nicknamed the “Racers,” faced backlash for its insensitive connotations.
Though the term “Racers” itself is not inherently offensive, its context and logo design raised concerns about perpetuating stereotypes. The team eventually changed its name to the Toronto Blue Jays, aligning with a more neutral and respectful identity.
This shift reflects a broader Canadian movement to reconcile with Indigenous peoples and address systemic racism within sports and society.
Key Changes Made
- Rebranded team colors and logo to avoid cultural appropriation.
- Increased collaboration with Indigenous communities for events.
- Promoted educational initiatives around Indigenous history.
High School Teams and Local Name Changes
Beyond professional and collegiate levels, many high school sports teams have taken proactive steps to change names considered racist or culturally insensitive. These changes often come from grassroots efforts led by students, parents, and community members.
Names such as “Redskins,” “Savages,” or other stereotypes have been retired in favor of neutral or locally meaningful alternatives. These changes foster environments of respect and inclusivity among young athletes and their supporters.
Local school boards typically conduct reviews and include stakeholders in the renaming process, ensuring the new names reflect community values without causing harm.
Common Reasons for High School Changes
- Addressing offensive Native American mascots and nicknames.
- Responding to pressure from civil rights organizations.
- Promoting diversity and cultural understanding in school culture.
“Changing our team name was a way to show respect and move forward together.” – High school principal
Global Perspectives: International Sports Teams Addressing Racism
The movement to change racist or insensitive sports team names is not limited to North America. Internationally, teams have also confronted similar challenges, reflecting a global shift toward greater cultural respect.
For example, some Australian football clubs have altered names or mascots that referenced Indigenous peoples in derogatory ways. Similarly, European soccer teams have reconsidered nicknames tied to colonial or racial stereotypes.
These changes demonstrate how the sports world is increasingly recognizing the power of names and symbols to either harm or heal communities worldwide.
Examples of International Changes
- Australian clubs removing Indigenous caricatures from branding.
- European teams rebranding to avoid colonial-era connotations.
- African teams embracing names that celebrate local culture and history.
Why Changing a Name Matters: Beyond the Logo
Changing a sports team’s name due to racism is more than a cosmetic update—it’s a meaningful step toward social justice. Names carry deep cultural significance, and those that perpetuate stereotypes contribute to the marginalization of entire communities.
These changes help foster environments where all fans feel welcome and respected. They also encourage conversations about history, identity, and the ongoing impact of racism in society.
Sports, as a unifying force, have the potential to lead such cultural shifts.
For those interested in exploring the significance of names and how to approach finding respectful and meaningful alternatives, resources like how to pick a new name provide valuable insights into the thoughtful process behind renaming.
“Names are more than words—they’re a reflection of who we are and what we stand for.” – Social justice advocate
Conclusion: Embracing Change for a More Inclusive Future
The journey many sports teams have taken to change racist or culturally insensitive names illustrates a powerful shift in societal values. Moving away from harmful stereotypes toward respectful and inclusive identities fosters unity, understanding, and pride for all fans and communities involved.
While these changes sometimes face resistance due to tradition or nostalgia, they ultimately represent progress. They acknowledge the pain caused by offensive names and open the door to healing and reconciliation.
Sports teams serve as cultural icons, and their willingness to evolve reflects a commitment to equity and respect.
As fans, players, and communities, embracing these changes allows us to celebrate sports in a way that honors diversity and promotes dignity. The impact of renaming goes beyond the game, contributing to a broader movement toward justice and respect in society.
For those navigating name changes themselves, whether in sports or personal life, learning how to legally change your name in Oregon or elsewhere can be an empowering step toward embracing identity with pride.
