Labor department bans Redskins apparel at football party
The civil rights center at the United States Department of Labor held a football-themed party on Friday to “celebrate a championship year,” and encouraged party-goers to drape themselves in the gear of their favorite teams, according to the The Washington Times.
There was just one exception—no Redskins apparel.
“It has been respectfully requested that employees voluntarily refrain from wearing clothing or other sports memorabilia that promote Washington D.C.’s professional football team, the Redskins, or other teams that use names, characters, etc. that may portray American Indians or other cultures in a derogatory manner,” a note at the bottom of a party invitation read, according to the Times.
President Barack Obama and Senator Harry Reid have urged Redskins owner Dan Snyder to change the team’s name, deeming it offensive. Last year, the United States Patent and Trademark Office canceled the team’s trademark registration because it was disparaging to Native Americans.
“Please join me in promoting an inclusive environment for all employees and be conscientious about how we represent our values as a civil rights office,” an office manager said in an email.
The Redskins kicked off their game with the Panthers on Sunday at 1 p.m. ET. They did not respond to a request for comment from the Times.
- Kenny Ducey
