U.S. Congress Discusses Return of Washington Redskins Logo Amid RFK Stadium Redevelopment

The U.S. Senate Committee on Energy and Natural Resources has sparked a new debate by discussing the potential return of the Washington Redskins logo, a move tied to the redevelopment of the Robert F. Kennedy Memorial Stadium Campus in Washington, D.C. Last week, the committee voted 17-2 to advance legislation (H.R. 4984) that would transfer administrative jurisdiction over the RFK Stadium campus to the District of Columbia, allowing for residential and commercial development in the area.

This legislative move is linked to negotiations between the NFL, the Washington Commanders, and Congress to possibly reinstate the Redskins logo, which was discarded in 2020 due to widespread criticism. Montana Senator Steve Daines, who supported the bill, mentioned “good faith negotiations” with the NFL and the Commanders that could lead to the logo’s return, potentially with proceeds from merchandise sales going to support Native American causes. However, these discussions do not include changing the team’s nickname back to Redskins, a idea previously dismissed by the Commanders.

The Redskins logo, designed by Walter “Blackie” Wetzel, a councilman and chairman of the Blackfeet Nation, is seen as a symbol honoring Blackfeet Chief John Two Guns White Calf. Wetzel’s family and the Blackfeet tribe have expressed strong support for the logo’s return, viewing it as a way to honor Native American culture.

Senator Daines emphasized the significance of the logo, criticizing past decisions to remove it as part of what he described as “woke gone wrong” and an overreach of the DEI movement. The current chairman and tribal council of the Blackfeet tribe have signed a letter in support of bringing the logo back, highlighting its importance in honoring Indian Country).