Opinion | The author's opinion does not necessarily reflect Sarah Palin's view.
The Washington Commanders are reportedly considering reintroducing the Redskins logo, removed in 2020 during racial justice protests. The decision sparked widespread debate, with some Native American leaders coming out in condemnation of the change. Montana Sen. Steve Daines recently announced his support for a bill allowing the Commanders to build a new stadium at RFK Stadium dependent upon good faith negotiations.
The team and NFL agreed to honor the Blackfeet chief logo used from 1972 to 2020. Daines emphasized that the logo celebrates Native American heritage and “Indian Country.”
Daines said, “We were calling out leaders in case of really, woke gone wrong. The irony that they were canceling Native American culture as the DEI movement went way too far.”
Daines added, “This is honoring a Blackfeet chief who was born in Montana. He is highly esteemed. The Blackfeet tribe of Montana, their current chairman and tribal council signed a letter in strong support to bring the logo back. It honors Indian Country.”
The logo, inspired by Blackfoot Chief John Two Guns White Calf, was created in 1971 by Walter “Blackie” Wetzel. His descendants have supported its return to the NFL.
The Senate Energy & Natural Resources Committee advanced the bill, 17-2. Daines said he’s optimistic about the team fulfilling commitments to the Wetzel family.
Daines said, “There’s good faith in negotiations going forward that’s going to allow this logo to be used again. Perhaps revenues going to a foundation that could help Native Americans in sports and so forth. We’re making good progress and, based on the good faith negotiations, I made a decision to support this bill yesterday in the committee.”
The Blackfeet Tribal Council also supported the logo’s return, calling it a tribute to Native culture. Don and Ryan Wetzel have worked for years to restore the design.
