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Lawmakers introduce bill to void 'Redskins' trademark
A group of House Democrats on Wednesday introduced a bill that would prevent the term "Redskins" from being trademarked, a move intended to put pressure on the Washington football club to change its name.
The Non-Disparagement of American Indians in Trademark Registrations Act of 2013 is co-sponsored by Del. Eleanor Holmes Norton (D-D.C.), and comes days after a federal trademark panel heard arguments over whether the team name was a slur. The panel could potentially overturn the team's trademark, which would erode profits by allowing other businesses to sell apparel and goods featuring the Redskins name.
Earlier this month, Norton said the team "should consider" a new name.
“I certainly do. But nothing happens without pushing and shoving ... I am a fan of the Redskins. I’m just not a fan of their name," Norton said.
The trademark pushes come amid renewed calls in Washington politics and media for the team to change the name. Earlier this year, D.C. mayor Vincent Gray said the team could be forced to "work with" the city council on a name change if they wanted to build a new stadium within the District.
The team has not publicly commented on challenges to the Redskins trademark, but last month began posting articles to the team website that highlighting high schools that also use the moniker.
