Native American leaders urge Commanders to abandon former name and logo

Native American leaders are calling on the Washington Commanders to permanently drop their previous name and logo following the release of a limited merchandise collection featuring the branding. The team recently sold apparel honoring alumni that included the former name on the back and the old logo on the front. While the items sold out quickly, members of the Maryland Commission on Indian Affairs and the Indian Gaming Association argue that the imagery remains offensive. The Commanders maintain that the merchandise is intended only to celebrate franchise history and protect active trademarks. Under ownership led by Josh Harris, the organization says it has no plans to revert to the previous identity used under former owner Daniel Snyder. Legal experts note that companies often keep trademarks in commercial use to prevent them from being considered abandoned under federal law.

• 8:28 PMYahoo Sports — Native American Leaders to Commanders: Drop Old Name for Good