Cleveland (AP) – Cleveland Indians are changing their name after 105 years.
Citing three people familiar with the decision, The New York Times reported Sunday night that the team is moving away from a name that has been considered racist for decades. Indians have been arguing domestically for months that a name change is possible.
A team spokesman told the Associated Press that the owner had no immediate comment on the report.
The Times said the team could make a formal announcement this weekend. It is unknown at this time what he will do after leaving the post.
Cleveland’s move from the Indians follows a similar decision by the NFL’s Washington football team earlier this year, formerly known as the Redskins.
For years, Native American groups and others opposed the use of Cleveland Indians as its name, as well as other images used by the American League Charter of Rights established in 1901. Last year, the group removed the controversial Chief Wahu logo from its hats and jerseys. , But smiling, cartoonish logo has been popular and sold with its image.
The Indians have dealt with the backlash from fans who regretted the removal of Chief Wahoo and are sure to ask the club further with the decision to change its name.
“Oh! What’s going on? “President Donald Trump tweeted.” This is not good news, not even for “Indians”. Cancel culture at work! ”
In July, just hours after Washington’s plans were announced after pressure from a number of supporters, including FedEx, who own the rights to the football team’s ground, Cleveland owner Paul Dolan issued a statement saying the team would “review the best way forward with our team’s name.” ”
In the months that followed, the team consulted with players, front office members, coaching staff, community leaders, stakeholders and Native American groups.
A few days after Dolan’s statement, India manager Terry Francona said it was time to “move forward” with the name change.
“I’m been thinking about it, I’m been thinking about it,” said Francona, who has been with the club since 2013. I know in the past, when asked about it, it’s our name or Chief Woo, I think I usually respond, I know we never try to be disrespectful.
“I still feel that way. But I don’t think today’s a good answer. I think it’s time to move forward. It’s a very difficult subject. It’s gentle.”
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