California public schools ban use of ‘Redskins’ mascot
California governor Jerry Brown signed a bill into law Sunday banning public schools in the state from using “Redskins” as a team nickname or mascot.
Assembly Bill 30 declares schools currently using the nickname must change it by Jan. 1, 2017. There are currently four such schools in the state, according to the Sacramento Bee. As cost-saving measure, the schools will be allowed to wear old uniforms featuring the name past 2017 if they select a new nickname.
California becomes the first state to pass a law specifically banning the term, although both Oregon and Wisconsin passed legislation to ban the use of Native American names and imagery in public schools, according to Buzzfeed.
The use of the term “Redskins” has created a national dialogue in regards to the NFL team the Washington Redskins, who have been in a legal dispute over their trademark.
A SI poll in September found that only 25 percent of fans thought the name should be changed.
Several Native American groups have been outspoken in their opposition to the nickname, protesting at Washington games and encouraging football fans to pressure the NFL to change Washington’s nickname.
• BARSHOP: Youth leagues also wrestling with Redskins nickname
