NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell defends Washington Redskins' nickname

NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell says the Redskins' nickname stands for pride and respect. (Getty Images)

Washington Redskins owner Dan Snyder has said he will never change the team's nickname, even though some find the name offensive.

NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell seems to back Snyder saying that the nickname is a "unifying force that stands for strength, courage, pride and respect" and says the nickname's origins and polls that support its popularity.

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Last week, Goodell responded to a letter from 10 Congress members who want the Redskins' name changed because they say it's offensive to many Native Americans.

"Mr. Goodell ... Whether good intentioned or not, the fact of the matter is that the term 'Redskin' is a racial slur that disparages Native Americans," said Congressman Eni Faleomavaega (D-American Samoa), said via NFL.com. "It is time for the NFL to stop making excuses for itself and fully embrace its so-called commitment to diversity, "Indian children, families and elders are Americans," McCollum added, "and just like all racial, ethnic, or religious groups, they deserve to be treated with respect and dignity, not as a demeaning caricature or mascot. That shouldn't be too much to ask of the NFL."

Said Betty McCollum (D-Minnesota): "Goodell's letter is another attempt to justify a racial slur on behalf of Dan Snyder and other NFL owners who appear to be only concerned with earning ever larger profits. ...