Rep. McCollum Statement on Federal Court Decision on Washington Football Team Name Trademark Case

Washington, DC – This morning, the United States District Court Eastern District of Virginia upheld the cancellation of the Washington NFL franchise’s trademark for their team name. Congresswoman Betty McCollum issued the following statement:

“In our society, words and symbols matter. There are images in our culture that evoke strong memories of our history, which can sometimes be painful and ugly. Our federal government should not protect trademarks for businesses that use racist words and symbols for profit.

“The name of the Washington football team is a dictionary defined racial slur. It is a hurtful and ugly word which diminishes and disrespects Native American people.

“Today’s court decision is a good step towards ensuring that this hateful slur is removed from professional football. I applaud the court’s decision and I will continue to stand with all of the dedicated activists in the Native American community and their allies who have worked on this issue. The work is not done – the mascot must change.”

Congresswoman McCollum is the ranking Democratic member on the Interior Appropriations Subcommittee and the Democratic co-chair of the Native American Caucus.