Washington commanders are being urged to consider returning the Redskins logo

The Washington Commanders are no strangers to controversy. From the team’s historic renaming to its efforts to move beyond the legacy of the Redskins name, the franchise has spent years navigating the difficult waters of cultural advancement and tradition.

But just when it seemed like the past was finally in the rearview mirror, the Commanders are making headlines again – this time with the possibility of reviving the former Redskins logo.

Last week, the Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee voted 17-2 to advance legislation H.R. 4984, which would transfer control of the RFK Stadium site to the District of Columbia. This is exciting news for fans as it sets the stage for a potential new stadium on the site where Washington football’s legacy was born.

But the bill’s passage brought an unexpected twist: negotiations between the NFL, the Washington Commanders and lawmakers to restore the controversial logo.

Montana Senator Steve Daines confirmed discussions are ongoing with FOXNews America Reports. “There is good faith in the negotiations that will allow this logo to be used again,” Daines said. He suggested that proceeds from merchandise bearing the logo could go toward supporting Native American causes, calling it an opportunity to “honor Indian country.”

It’s no secret that the Redskins logo holds sentimental value for many fans. It was created by Walter “Blackie” Wetzel, a leader of the Blackfeet Nation, and inspired by Chief John Two Guns White Calf. This is a reason for pride for Wetzel’s family. “It’s exciting to even have this conversation after they said it would be over forever,” said Walter’s grandson, Ryan Wetzel Daily Montanan.

The Redskins logo holds a special place in the hearts of many fans, but also has deep cultural meaning. Designed by Walter “Blackie” Wetzel, a leader of the Blackfeet Nation, the logo was inspired by Blackfeet Chief John Two Guns White Calf.

Wetzel’s family has long viewed the logo as a source of pride. “It’s exciting to even have this conversation after they said it would be over forever,” Ryan Wetzel, Walter’s grandson, said in an interview with the .

While the idea of ​​reviving the logo is gaining traction in some circles, it is not without complications. Commanders have made clear they are not considering a return to the Redskins name, which they retired in 2020 after years of public pressure. The logo, however, is a different story.

For the team, the return of the logo could be a way to honor its roots while charting a new path. But this decision carries risks. Sports culture has increasingly moved away from Native American images, with teams like the Cleveland Guardians and universities like St. John’s and Miami of Ohio leading the way.

The involvement of the Wetzel family and tribal leaders could lend credibility to the effort, but it is clear that much is at stake. Without meaningful partnerships and concrete support for Indigenous communities, the move could be seen as opportunistic rather than respectful.

As the Senate prepares to vote on the RFK Stadium bill in December, all eyes are on the commanders. This moment is more than just a chance to build a new home.

For a team that has tried to redefine itself in recent years, the return of the logo could be a bold move. Whether it is the right thing to do depends on how commanders balance preserving their past and remaining faithful to the present.

Stay with CommanderGameday and the Locked On Commanders podcast for more FREE coverage of the Washington Commanders during the 2024 season.

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