Will the Chilliwack Chiefs change their name because of the US “Redskins controversy?”

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VANCOUVER (NEWS1130) – Will local sports teams be affected by the “Redskins controversy?”

We spoke with the president of the Chilliwack Chiefs after a decision south of the border that could mean a step away from a name many Native Americans see as derogatory.

The Trademark Trial and Appeal Board in the US has decided trademark protections for “Redskins” — the name of Washington’s football team — should be cancelled.

Chilliwack Chiefs President Glen Ringdal says when he became involved with the team three years ago, those with the club wondered whether the name should be changed. They talked to First Nations in the area.

“Their only concern was that we might change it,” he explains. “They actually find the word ‘Chief’ to be a very positive word. That was the response that we got, and they were happy to have the connotation that there might be a connection between the local hockey club and the prominent native population of this area.”

Ringdal adds he can see this move away from names some view as derogatory south of the border, travelling north, and filtering down to junior teams.

“If the names are offensive in any way, not only do I see it happening — it should happen. So, I think it’s important that a nickname, as they call them, is in keeping with the feelings of the population. If they really like it, that’s great; if they don’t like it, then it should be changed.”

Ringdal adds it wouldn’t take many complaints for him to change the name of his team.

The battle over the Redskins’ name isn’t over. The Washington team plans to appeal the trademark decision.

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