Native American groups slam new alternate Commanders logo

The Washington Commanders introduced a new alternate logo on Wednesday, one that has a spear piercing through the “W” logo. While a majority of the fanbase seems to like it, Native American groups across the country called out the organization for using a spear in the alternate logo.

A spokesperson of the Association on American Indian Affairs claims that the Commanders’ new alternate logo is another example of using Native American people as a mascot, according to Josh Peter of USA Today Sports. The group admits they feel the logo is “disappointing” and “inappropriate.”

“The Washington Commanders’ decision to update their logo is disappointing and inappropriate to say the least,’’ said the Association on American Indian Affairs. “It is time to stop repeating this cycle and listen to Native Peoples who have been clear, consistent, and unwavering on this issue: We are not your mascot.”

A Native American activist, Suzan Harjo, also blasted the Commanders for the alternate logo. Harjo was part of two different lawsuits to push the franchise to change its original nickname to the Commanders. She feels the organization adding a spear in the alternate logo is a way for them to appease part of the fanbase who want the previous nickname and mascot to return, per Peter.

“There are a lot of people in Washington D.C. (and parts of Virginia and Maryland) who really long for the days of the dreaded R-word,” Harjo said, referring to the team’s previous nickname. “It was a vile name. It was one of the vilest ever.”

The franchise initially changed the team nickname and mascot to the Commanders in 2022 and has remained that way since then. Neither the organization nor the NFL has yet to share any comments regarding the criticism from the Association on American Indian Affairs.

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