Washington Football Team Stadium.Photo: Andy Lewis/Icon Sportswire via Getty
Aftername changing their namelast year, the Washington Football Team is making clear what will — and won’t — be allowed in the stands as they welcome back fans to their stadium this fall.
On Wednesday, the teamannouncedit was banning guests from wearing Native American apparel at FedEx Field for the 2021 season, an updated policy that comes just over a year since the franchisechanged its namefrom “Redskins,” a term seen as a racial slur against Indigenous people of the United States.
“We are excited to welcome everyone back wearing their Burgundy & Gold,” the team said, referencing their longtime colors.
“However,” they continued, “Native American inspired ceremonial headdresses or face paint may no longer be worn into the stadium.”
The organization also announced a list of other policy changes, including asking fans who have not received a COVID-19 vaccine to wear masks.
Washington Football Team/Twitter
“It is expected that each ticket holder agrees to uphold the Ticket Holder Promise when attending any event at FedEx Field,” the franchise said. “Additionally, and as part of the Washington Football Team Fan Code of Conduct, the team asks that all fans help to make every FedEx Field experience great for every fan.”
“This includes not using foul or offensive language, no fighting or engaging in unruly behavior, not throwing anything inside the stadium, drinking responsibly when drinking, and always following instructions from stadium staff,” they continued.
The move to ban Native American imagery comes just weeks after the Cleveland MLB franchiseannouncedit had changed its name from “Indians” to “Guardians,” after it, too, had been criticized for its original moniker.
Cleveland removed their Chief Wahoo logo from game jerseys and caps two years ago after the league said the symbol, which featured a smiling Native American, was not appropriate for field use.
RELATED VIDEO:Tom Brady, Patrick Mahomes Unveiled as Madden NFL 22 Cover Athletes: ‘Surreal,’ Chiefs Star Says
“We feel like it’s time to retire Warpaint,” president Mark Donovan said of the change. “A lot of reasons for that, but we feel like it’s the right thing to do. Warpaint won’t be running at Arrowhead anymore.”
source: people.com
