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- I’m Being Called “Racist” for supporting the Nepean Redskins »
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I think the question posed by randall has taken the issue out of context. The people fighting for the issue want to see the name changed, i do not believe they think the organization and anyone involved with the organization are racists.
- JamiesonThe name is racist. There’s really no arguing that. I’ve tried to talk with people from the organization and even offered to fundraise to make the transition easier but have been met with silence. The twitter campaign has seemed to spark conversation though… Randall, I started the twitter campaign and the Facebook group. I’d love to come on your show and have a minute to help educate people on this specific issue which is a tarnish on the city that I love. Thank you for this opportunity and lending your mass media venue to have a discussion on civil rights and socially acceptable mainstream racism. Chi Meegwetch!
- Ian CampeauWhy does this topic need THIS MUCH discussion. It is CLEARLY a racist name. Why keep talking about it? Why not just change it out of respect, and move on!!
- Corey SIf a team is told it’s name is unacceptable because it is hurtful, insensitive, denigrating, etc. and they refuse to change it or even discuss the matter, then what are we to think about their political stance? If you act like a racially insenstive group then you are going to be thought of as a racially insenstive group. Ian and others have tried to educate and enlighten, but have gotten no where. I respect what volunteer organizations do for the community, but they have a responsibility to the entire community to do so in a respectable and considerate manner which the Nepean group has not done. Get Ian on your show…and let him provide the other side of the issue.
- Cheryl LeBlanc-WeldonIt’s racist. Makes me not want to support sports teams in Nepean.
- O'LearyIt is a racist name and should be change. I hope you accept Ian Campeau on your show to help better understand why we find it racist and why it should be changed!
Wliwni
- Xavier WIf anyone is offended as I was this morning by Randall’s segment, please feel free to follow in my footsteps and file a complaint to the CRTC here, http://www.crtc.gc.ca/eng/info_sht/g8.htm#filing
- Ian CampeauThe team nickname is racist. After a year of emails and phone calls met with silence and unchange, I’m forced to assume that the organization including the president, Stephan Dean, is racist. The fact that you, Randall and Chez 106 are promoting racist organizations like this, I might be forced to make some more assumptions…
- Ian CampeauI wonder if they where called white skins if it would be still considered racist?
- JohnThe name is racist, just change it and the problem is solved. Would you name a team the “Black Skins”, “Yellow Skins” or “White Skins”, with a logo depicting the image of a member of the corresponding race? Of course not. So what’s the difference Mr. Moore?
- Matt GunvilleThank you Mr Moore for defending a organization that has class with a class act president in Steve Dean with the board with amazing coaches in Tackle,cheer leading,touch Football who season after season bring a team atmosphere. We parents our proud of and honored most of all blessed to have these people around our Youth. Name. Of Redskins to the Football community’s Means respect,trustworthy,loyal,carrying,Hard working no matter what background you are from.
- ErnestAgain thank Randall
@Ernest. I don’t want anyone to stop playing football! I want people to stop referring to me and my children as “Redskins”. Where’s the respect in that? CHANGE THE NAME!
- Ian CampeauIan Campeau get off your soap box. Focus your energy on something useful like fighting homelessness. It’s just a name for christ sakes.
- Gi guess more people read chez’s fb page than they do this blog as the same post has garnered 300+ comments. and now some are saying the fb post is no longer accessible.
- spedersonThe name is racist, change it!
Ill get off my soapbox when the name is changed. And don’t tell me what to do.
- Ian CampeauIt’s a sports organization, so it’s beyond criticism, right Randall? How about a sports team called the Negroes or the Coloureds, featuring a graphic logo of a black man with a big ‘fro etc.? It’s just a name right?
Are you seriously this dense, Randall, or just ignorant? Ease up on the jock sniffing for once and score some humanity. The whole thing here is the objectification of a race of people, using an old derogatory term, in the name of a sports team.
The sad thing is, if you can’t see it for what it is, it is likely that a whole lot of other people feel the same. These types of team names should have gone the way of minstrel shows long ago. But I suppose you don’t see anything wrong with minstrel shows either, right?
- Harry WilliamsIt’s funny that I’m told to get off MY soap box and I don’t even have a minute on radio to say my opinions…
- Ian Campeauomg… are you all for real.
it’s a football team, NOTHING RACIST about that.
Ian get a life and stop crying for stupid think like a football name.
- JLOh crap! I had some Redskin peanuts lastnight, God! I racist now! People get a life, there is poverty poeple living on the streets IN OTTAWA, and we are concerned about a name that has been around since???Your not racist! Your selfish! I nominate these poeple for BONEHEADS of the week!
- PatCheers
Randall1
Pat
You said it Ian, “You might have to make more assumptions” about CHEZ106, the first comment about the REDSKINS was an assumption also! You know what happens when one assumes? If you don’t GOOGLE it!
- PatP
Sorry this so stupid I can’t let it go! So we go after General Mills for Aunt Gemima pancakes next? Give your head a shake! Hey! Planters for RED SKIN peanuts! Texaco for their FIRECHIEF fuel? shall I go on? If that is all you have to complain about, I envy you!
- PatI’m with Pat & Randall. The list of racist “labels” in society today is very lengthy. Let us spend our time (and money) on better causes. Sue
- Patian campeau get a LIFE!!!!
- Mr. RedskinsAs a coach for the Nepean REDSKINS, I find this ridiculous. It’s not as if someone chose the name to upset anyone (as Randall said this morning) The kids don’t see it as the way people are taking it either. Yes, I have learned why so many of you are upset. I understand that. At the same time, if I can see why you are all so upset by it and still see all the POSITIVES to the name, why can’t you? So, to support Randall Moore today, I have worn as much of my REDSKINS gear as I could find. Look at the bright side of things and stop being so uptight. This is ridiculous!
Coach for the REDSKINS
- Ms. RedskinsThink about it: if the team were called the “Nepean Honkies” and the logo was white hick with buck teeth, the name would be changed as soon as someone complained. The white people who fill most leadership roles in this city would be able to relate to how offensive that stereotype is.
I’m surprised at how many commenters here can’t imagine themselves in the place of a native who’s offended by the Redskins name and logo. Having a stereotype of my ethnic group used as a team logo would piss me off. But making the team name an ethnic slur would push me over the edge!
If someone started a team called the Nepean Honkies I would feel like punching them in the face. So I understand the campaign to change the Nepean Redskins name. I support it.
- FinMaybe they mean the colour of the football its sort of a red-brown coloured pig skin. I hope the PETA doesn’t come after me for this one.
- JohnDon’t worry John, you don’t need to live in fear of PETA.
The team’s logo is the head of a solemn native guy, with feathers hanging off of him. It’s pretty clear what they mean:
- Finhttp://www.nepeanredskins.com
There are POSITIVES associated with the ORGANIZATION but there is absolutely nothing POSITIVE about the NAME. It is no different than a team calling itself the Nepean N*ggers and having a black person’s head as the logo. No difference. And it has nothing to do with the organization’s ‘good intentions’. It’s really not about all the great positive things the organization does. It’s about the organizations degrading and racially insensitive name — something that can’t be justified or excused for any reason.
- AnonymousSome people clearly have to much time on their hands and are overly SENSITIVE !
- MarkWow. I like that people don’t put their full names when spewing racist comments like this. It is racist. I’m the person they’re referring to and I don’t feel honoured. If the logo of the team were redskin peanuts, I’d have no problem with that. Unfortunately, it’s an Aboriginal male, which I am, so I do take offense to it. It’s not you that’s being called something you don’t like to be called. It’s me and my young children. CHANGE THE NAME BACK TO THE BUCCANEERS!!! No one will offended then.
- Ian CampeauNo one can tell me what I find or do not find offensive. This is offensive and racist. If anyone would like to discuss ways to change the name with the least amount disruption to these kids football season, I’d love to talk about it. I’ve suggested that the team name transition can be a long process. Like over 5 years. First change the website and announce the name change to all media outlets. Then we can put stickers and patches over the helmets and jerseys until new ones are needed. Have the new helmets and jerseys take on the new name and then the transition will be complete. As for the field and scoreboard, I’m willing to help raise funds to make the the transition easier. This name is racist. It’s time to change it. We’re all willing to help. Who’s with me? If you want to discuss the Aboriginal poverty in the city, that’s another topic all together.
- Ian CampeauI applaud Ian for putting himself out there in such a public way and taking the criticism and, well, slander from strangers who are unwilling to name themselves.
I went to a High School that had “Redskins” as our team name and logo. The year after I finished, the school, with some fight, decided to change the name after local residents and families voiced their concern with the image and message the school was sending. Ten years later – with a new name and logo the teams are still winning games and the school spirit is as high as ever.
Randall states at the beginning that the complaint was that the name of the organization was racist – but then changes the direction saying that the organization is racist. I know, personally, some of the people involved in this rant. It is the name we’re against – not the people themselves. It has been said over and over on this feed that if the name were a derogatory term for another culture/race – it would have been changed long ago.
Let’s face it – times are changing and we need to move with them.
- Hillary MI fully support the Redskins Organization. The name has been around Nepean a long time and all of a sudden someone plays the racist card. No I don’t think so, my son has 9 Nepean Redskin plaques on his bedroom wall.We are a proud Redskin family,not racists.
- EugeneEugene,
- Hillary MI don’t believe for a second that people believe the families involved with the organization are racists – but consider a team named after a derogatory term for your heritage and culture. Trying to explain why its considered ‘ok’ for the masses to use this language to your children?
Teams across North America have been changing their names and logos for this very reason. Why can’t Ottawa?
Is “The name has been around Nepean a long time” really a suitable excuse? I can think of many terms that have been around “a long time” that you would never consider using nowadays.
Think about it….
No one on this thread would call someone they didn’t know a Redskin. That’s because they know it’s wrong. But this team is calling me and my children “Redskin” every day by a team of youth no less. What’s that teaching your kids? Seriously, think about it.
- Ian CampeauPeople are pushing to change the name because it’s a racial slur against aboriginal people and they find it offensive.
“The name has been around Nepean a long time” is a poor argument. When things are wrong, they deserve to be changed.
If the team places importance on values like respect and dignity then it should change its name.
- FinA name is what YOU interpet it as. Nobody can change that, why should poeple change the name of something because they INTERPET it differntly? This same situation happened when Government called Male/Male,Female/Female unions MARRIAGE, that pissed the church off, just a name folks Funny how the minor things in life concern us??
- patPat
^^^^^^^^^^^
- Harry WilliamsI guess black people shouldn’t get their panties in a knot when they hear the word ‘n*gger’. They’re just interpreting it the wrong way.
It’s all about context. The term “Redskin” can be used as a pejorative, but it is not inherently so. In a sports context, “Redskins” is meant as a term of strength, power and positive imagery. Team names are selected to be cheered for and to be proud to be part of.
“Indian” is another term that is often used as a pejorative. As a Mi’kmag woman, I find the term “Indian” is often used in an offensive way (depending on context), yet I notice that Ian uses it in his stage name. Maybe he should be asked to change that?
“A Tribe Called Red”…I have heard of Ian’s band before and always assumed the “Red” part was referring to “Redskin”. Maybe they should re-think their name?
My family (and we are First Nations) has been associated with the Nepean Redskins Football Club for 8 or 9 years now. My girls have played flag football, touch football and been cheerleaders. One of my daughters is now a cheerleading coach. I have served as parent volunteer and Cheerleading Coordinator. We have never felt the name “Redskins” was a racial slur against us, and I feel a kind of pity in my heart for those that do.
I would personally not want to live in a white-washed society where no one could refer to First Nations people in any way for fear of offending someone. I like having the “Noble Chief”, as someone referred to it, as the logo. It makes me feel good to see hundreds of people cheering for a First Nations themed team.
The club is a great club and has always been respectful of First Nations.
There are no “tomahawk chops”, people wearing “war paint” or running around in chicken feathers as head dresses…which make up a big part of the complaints against the sports teams in the U.S. where Native-named sports teams are being challenged. Antics like those mock our First Nations culture, but are completely 100% absent from Nepean Redskins Football games – and would not be tolerated by the management.
Remember, it is all about context: Many terms, including “Indian”, “DJ NDN”, “Redskin” and “A Tribe Called Red” could all be interpreted as being offensive to different people.
- Angela SlaughterI would like to see if a team would be called Whiteskins, how we would be offended…The term Redskin has been around for awhile now, but it is time to remove it from our vocabulary and pay attention to our fellow brothers and sisters…this is such a racist comment. I am so dissapointed that we are still using terms such as this. I really hope they get around to changing the name!
- StephAngela, excellent counter(as a First Nations person) to Ian’s view that anyone supporting this amateur organization is somehow a racist.
- MarkThe Annenberg Public Policy Center at the University of Pennsylvania asked 768 Native Americans whether they were offended by the Washington Redskins name. 90 percent of those polled said they were not bothered, and only 9 percent said they found the team name offensive.
The Tachi-Yokut tribe who stated that schools having “Redskin” as a team name promoted a sense of pride among their people.
- MarkHow does the name imply anything derrogatory about anyone? We want the “Redskins” to succeed, to become the best on and off the field. They aspire to things that are bigger and better, build character, work together, support community and create unity. They are a rallying point for the us and something we can come together and cheer for no matter what our background. All people of all skin tones should aspire to these ideals. Again I ask, how is this a bad thing? When are people going get over themselves and learn that it is not what you are named, but who you become as a person that really matters in life? A football team teaches important life lessons about what we all should aspire to become. GO REDSKINS!
- Gary“How does the name imply anything derrogatory about anyone?”
It’s a racial slur. You wouldn’t call a native a “redskin” to his face, so it’s not suitable for a team name.
A team with your upstanding values wouldn’t consider it appropriate to call itself the “Nepean Rednecks” or the “Nepean Honkies”. So despite decades as the Nepean Redskins, the right thing to do now is change the name.
I’m certain it will be a lengthy and costly process. But this is about values like respect and dignity. I think the team organization is up to the challenge.
- FinIan’s quote
“Wow. I like that people don’t put their full names when spewing racist comments like this.
Mark Stevens for one.
Two, suggesting someone has to much time on thier hands or are overly sensitive is not racist, I think you need to refer to educate yourself, perhaps refer to Websters for example for the meaning.
Thirdly, I served this country (Infantry) and was then and still am prepared to die for it and ALL its people, regardless of race, religion, etc, etc so if you want to call me something, you can call me a Patriot !
- MarkMark: I’m sure everyone in this discussion is immensely proud of you for your service to your country. I know I am. But nothing you’ve said is remotely relevant.
The issue we’re debating is whether the Nepean Redskins should change a name that’s a racial slur.
- FinFin, you state: “Angela’s last paragraph is a poor argument. You’re right, it IS all about context. That’s why a native can call himself whatever he wants, and a music group of natives can call themselves whatever they want. To equate a group of native guys who call themselves “A Tribe Called Red” with a football team of mostly non-natives named after a racial slur as “equally offensive” is silly.”
My point was, “A Tribe Called Red(skin)”, is using the SAME “racial slur” (as it is being refered to) as the Nepean Redskins Football Club.
Ian keeps saying he doesn’t want ANYONE to call him or his children a “Redskin”, yet he and his band refer to themselves as “A Band Called Red”.
There are many examples of the use of the term Redskin across Canada. Our own talented and celebrated Aboriginal comedian, Don Burnstick, does an entire routine called “You Know You’re a Redskin when…”
For Ian to say it is wrong for a local football club to be called the Nepean Redskins, yet call his own band “A Tribe Called Red” (with the implication of the term Redskin) is talking out of the two sides of his mouth.
- Angela SlaughterAngela:
A native can call himself whatever he wants. Just like I can call myself a redneck or a cracker if I want to. But if someone *else* calls me that, it becomes a racial slur. And I might punch them in the face – or at least want to!
Black Americans comedians do routines all the time that use the word “n*gger” and we don’t consider it racist. Chris Rock’s “N*ggers vs. Black People” routine is funny and super-insightful and there isn’t a massive campaign against him. I don’t see how Don Burnstick is any different. As a society, we think it’s okay in that context.
But it’s not an appropriate name for a sports team. Many aboriginal people consider the word “redskin” a racial slur. I wouldn’t call my native buddy a “redskin”, so how can it be acceptable as a team name?
Here’s how I relate to it. If there was a football team called the Nepean Honkies, I would fight to change the name. To me, that’s a racial slur. Even if there were several white families involved with the team who were okay with it, I would respectfully disagree with them and campaign to have the team name changed.
To me, it’s about dignity and respect. I’m open to being convinced otherwise. But I wouldn’t stand for a team name that was a racial slur against *my* race. And I can’t see how it’s any different for aboriginal people.
- Finafter doing some snooping i have found on a certain social media app that he has an abundance of anti WHITE / CAUCASIAN slers plastered on Tshirts such as the one he is wearing in the METRO article along with a few others…. along with anti Monarch photos stateing that the money on the Jubilee festivities should have been spent on the aboriginal community. Native Canadians already have much more privlidges then what the average canadian has, and if you look close the WHITE man as you refer to us as has just as many hardships and issues as you do. This guy is just out for attention and publicity as a strugleing musician he obviousely is just out to try and call the race card on just about everything that involves the Native culture or doesnt involve the native culture and needs to give his head a shake. …. give it a rest. unfortunately the children are his target this time around…. GROW UP
- PrivateDetectiveYou can focus on personal attacks if you want, but it doesn’t change the matter at hand.
The issue here is whether it’s okay to have a youth football team with a racial slur for the name.
- FinI’m going to start a football team in SouthKeys..
- Brandon MitchellSouth Keys BLACK FACES… who’s with me!
I’m being sarcastic of course… i know it’s hard to understand over the internet. But my point is this. These names at their very foundation is racist and based of off old ideals. YOu have kids now who’s only exposure to aboriginals in Canada and US are from pop and sports culture, treating us (yes i’m first nations) as a thing of the past, like it’s ok to use these terms because no one will be offended.
- Brandon MitchellOh yeah and CHEZ 106 is off my dial…
- Brandon MitchellSo where is Randall now? I wonder if he’s still outraged. OH, I don’t know because he isn’t saying anything anymore. The name is racist and should be changed.
You’re out of your element Randall. Stick to old rock music.
- Someone with a Brain@Private Detective. Did you know that there are communities today who don’t have drinkable water? Drinkable water to many Aboriginals communities is a privilege that they don’t have.
- Ian CampeauI realize that I may be a bit behind the time for a comment of this type on this particular thread.
But! The argument that one race can call themselves whatever they want, for instance, me calling myself a cracker, caveman, whitey, honkey etc. and it being ok because I’m white, yet having others not be allowed to say it because they are not white? That’s a pretty huge double standard, and incredibly ignorant if you ask me.
In other words, you feel entitled to be able to do something because of your race, that other races cannot? That to me seems racist…
Now, I’m impartial to a name change, as I personally see the name being with good intentions. Yet, what people point out, can be seen as offensive. Just don’t call the organization racist, and don’t use this garbage in a defence on a post “I can say it because I’m aboriginal, and you cant because you’re white” and of course vice versa
- Kevin JThis is socially acceptable mainstream racial oppression. Me calling you a “cracker,caveman, whitey, honkey etc.” to your face on the street is one thing. Having a youth football organization adopting those pejoratives for their team name is on a different level isn’t it? Would you call someone you didn’t know a redskin? There isn’t one team in North America called “The Niggers” or “The Chinks” or “The Spics”, so why haven’t the Aboriginal community been given the same civil right and RESPECT as all the other races in North America?
- Ian Campeau@Angela Slaughter! Nice to see you again! If the name can be used as racial slur, why use it? A Tribe Called Red uses the word “red” because of the Medicine Wheel teachings. Not because of “redskin”. Please don’t assume. “NDN” (NOT Indian) is a term that has been adopted by the Aboriginal youth in order to reclaim and re purpose a term that is hurtful.
You say “Redskin” CAN be used a pejorative but isn’t here. That’s like saying “nigger” is a pejorative, but in the Nepean “Niggers”, it’s not.
We’ve been talking about this for over a year now, you and I. You wouldn’t want someone calling your kids “redskin” on the street, why allow an entire team call your kids redskin?
Last year, you said you weren’t offended by the team using the term “Redskin”. I said fine, you wouldn’t be offended then if the team were called “The Wildcats” either then. So why don’t we choose a name that offends no one and continue the winning spirit that is associated with the Nepean football team.
I’ve been told by past players and coaches that behind closed doors, racism against the logo and team name is not only present it’s RAMPANT. Opposing teams will sing “1 little, 2 little, 3 little Indians” on the bus rides to game. They also refer to alcoholism when making fun of the Redskins. Your children are being made fun of this way and YOU’RE CONDONING IT!!!
- Ian CampeauIan: My point with that wasn’t to either support nor be against the name. I mean that, if you, were to openly call yourself a redskin, and shun any person of different race for using such a term, to me that is racist.
That is if anyone, were to use a term like honkey, redskin, or whatever to describe themselves, then they shouldn’t be upset if someone else uses the term to describe them. Similar to several comedians “You know you’re a redneck when…”, or as I saw from another comment, Don Burnskin’s “You know you’re a redskin when…”. Albeit I understand that is done for the sake of humour, is it acceptable that they make those jokes just because of their skin colour? That to me would be a socially accepted pile of racism too then.
But, just back to my main point, they are saying they’re privileged to do something simply because of their race, that other races cannot do.
- Kevin J“This guy is just out for attention and publicity as a strugleing musician he obviousely is just out to try and call the race card on just about everything that involves the Native culture or doesnt involve the native culture and needs to give his head a shake. …. give it a rest.” and
” The issue here is whether it’s okay to have a youth football team with a racial slur for the name.”
I think we have to consider the source of the original complaint, I agree with above. Social media is a great way to bring attention to ones self, good work Ian. Also I do not believe and neither does anyone in the Nepean Redskins organization, that in the context used, Redskins is a racial slur. Obviously some people disagree, that’s OK,Go Redskins !!
- EugeneBy the way,,if there was a youth sports team called the “Honkeys”, I would not boycott their sponsors, and create this kind of fuss. It wouldn’t bother me and I don’t need the publicity. Just saying,
- Eugene@Kevin.
I don’t call myself ‘redskin’. People that “don’t mind” the term and call themselves ‘redskin” is a different situation than an entire football institution calling themselves “redskin”. Especially when 99.9% of all players and coaches don’t identify as Aboriginal. There isn’t a team called the “Nepean Niggers” or the “Nepean Chinks” because it’s socially unacceptable to use those words. Why isn’t the Aboriginal community given the same respect and civil right as ALL the other races in North America. You wouldn’t call someone you didn’t know a ‘Redskin’ to their face, would you? Ask yourself why?
@Eugene. The term is racist. In all context. Please explain to me how “redskin” can be used in any positive way. I’d love to have a real conversation with the people in the Nepean organization. I’ve come up with many different strategies to have the name changed in a manner that would be the most cost affective. I’d like to hear some of your suggestions! Let’s make a change to stop marginalizing an entire race!
- Ian Campeau@Eugene, have you seen the poll over at the “Metro”? It’s not just me who find this name offensive! Why are you arguing with me that “Redskins” is an acceptable name for a youth football team? A LOT of people think that using this name is wrong. Why keep it? Pick a name that doesn’t marginalize a race like this!
- Ian CampeauIan, good on you for using social media to further a cause you believe in and promote yourself. My point is simply that the name has been around for 20 years, it’s not like we have been hiding, our teams travel all over Eastern Ontario. YOU have decided to make it an issue because YOU are offended now,all of a sudden.YOU need to understand that there can be and will be differences of opinion.You can’t tell me that with the profile this team has in the community this issue is such a big deal to anyone after 20 years but YOU.Good on you for using the tools of today to try and get a change you feel is warranted. Good on us and our proud history as a group to shake our collective heads and say really,,,you’ve got to be kidding. I suggest you make use of your time and concern for our aboriginal community and focus on something that will actually help aboriginals.This isn’t that big a deal to the MAJORITY of Canadians, it’s a football team’s name,shake it off, move on to a more important issue to aboriginals.God knows Canadians have way bigger issues to address in the native communities.But you have every right to voice your opnion and do whatever you want to promote it, that is the freedom this great nation affords us all.
- Eugene@Eugen, Why isn’t the team called the “Nepean Niggers”? And would you call someone you didn’t know a “Redskin”? This isn’t about me. This is about changing socially accepted mainstream racial oppression. The term is, in fact, racist. There’s really no two ways to look at this. Now let’s take the focus off of ‘me and my shameless self promotion’, and let’s talk about ways to change the name in the smoothest way possible!
- Ian Campeau@Eugene, I don’t want to take away form your winning history! I’m not saying “Redskins” should be stricken from history! I’m saying it needs to change now, so later generations can play football without having the tarnish of a racist moniker. You have the power to stop the boycott! Make the proper steps to change the name!
- Ian Campeauman this is actually stupid,why all of a sudden you want the name to be changed. i am a player on the Nepean Redskins and me and my fellow team mates go to practice almost every day proud to wear that jersey that says redskins on it. you think any of us players and coaches use the name is a racist matter not even. you’re makin this so much bigger then it is get over it its a name @ian campeau
- Nick P@Nick P. If it’s just a name, change it! Would you and your team mates all sudden suck at football if the name were the Buccaneers? It obviously offends a lot of people. Not just me. I’ve been trying to have the name changed for over a year now, it hasn’t been “all of a sudden”. The fact that you’re proud to put on a jersey, every day, that marginalizes an entire race of people, says something about Nepean organization. I’m afraid, you just reinforced my belief and initial claim of your organization being racist.
- Ian Campeau@iancampeau. By putting on my jersey everyday with the redskins name on itin no way marginalizes an entire name. in the contrary it puts a positive spin onan otherwise racist term if used that way! we do not. it is that simple. we are proud of are name and colours and not because it can be used in a racist way WITCH ALOT OF PEOPLE DONT might i add, but because it is the name of our team`,our family. witch no one wants the team name to be changed other then the people that take offence to it witch they shouldnt because its a bunch of kids playing football. its like asking the washinnton redskins to change there name and how much luck would you have doing that. us players and coaching staff are in no way shape or for racist so think whatever you want. but like i said its a name of our team or as we like to call it family, changing the name would be unbelievable and also cost a HUGE amount of money for the players and sponsers
- Nick PSorry, Nick P. It’s not that simple. Would you walk up to someone you didn’t know and call them a Redskin?
- Ian Campeaulmmaoooooo are you joking no. because no one everr walks up to people and calls them a redskin. ive never ever herd that come out once in my life BECAUSE ITS NEVER USED
- Nick PI’m so happy you’ve never had to deal with someone calling you a redskin. I’ve been called one many times. It was always said in a hurtful manner. It holds the same venom as “Nigger” or “Faggot”. It’s meant to make people feel like second class citizens. This is why it’s not OK. This team is calling me a Redskin without knowing me.
- Ian Campeau“@Eugen, Why isn’t the team called the “Nepean Niggers”? And would you call someone you didn’t know a “Redskin”? This isn’t about me.The term is, in fact, racist.”
My point is it is just about you.
I was at Bob Stephen Field today and wondered this,,I would never sign a cheque made to a group called Nepean Niggers, never. I am pretty sure very few people would. How many people have signed cheques to the Nepean Redskins,I have,,1,000′s of other parents have over the years. Several sponsors have. The City of Ottawa and the Province of Ontario have.
How many people have attended games and banquets where the “Redskins” name was featured prominently along with the indian head logo,,I have,dozens of Mayors have,,MPs, MPPs, alderman in the day,,Ben Franklin,Jan Harder, Walter Baker,Jim Watson,Bob Chiarelli, to name only a few.In all those times, all those cheques, all those City of Ottawa minutes of Parks and Recreation meetings,all those politicians speaking to banquets and doing ceremonial opening kickoffs,,did even ONE PERSON ever say,,hey wait a minute,saying the word “Redskins” in public is the same as saying the word Nigger. I think you think too much of yourself,and the terms that hurt you. I say along with most of the aforementioned people that the word Redskin is NOT racist at all.Do you really think the City of Ottawa would allow a group to put up a 30′ scoreboard with a black guys picture and Welcome to the home of The Nepean Niggers.Just typing those words now are repulsive to me.I am not repulsed by the word Redskin, YOU are, and for the last 20 years with Redskins Football being played all through Eastern Ontario and West Quebec, YOU are the first one to mention this. Really Ian, YOU, and YOU alone have started this fight.Local families, local businesses,local politicians, local governments,the NFL,Presidents of the United States,bank managers,clergy members blessing our food at banquets,doctors treating our players in hospitals, members of the community buying our chocolate bars and calanders door to door,,the list goes on and on,,have NEVER equated Redskin to Nigger. The term as it is being used by the Football Team is NOT racist and should stay for the legacy of the 1000s of players and supporters of a proud and decent group of Canadians. That is my opinion, and I am entitled to it, you can have yours.
I bet your band is getting a few more calls than it did last year,,,,good for YOU.
- Ian Campeauaare you. do you feel seccond class. i have been called meny things and yes most of them hurtful. and intended to make you feel seccond rate, i never did because i am not. i have been tought that you are only seccond rate if you feel that way. you are missing the bigger picture, thought redskins as a word maybe dergatory if used worng way but we do not, so do not offence to a simple word used by idiots ment to hurt. that is not what iit means to us and changing it now would be admitting that we`ve used it in a worng manor when we didnt
- Nick PI didn’t write the post above. This was someone using my name.
- Ian CampeauNot sure what happened but I posted the above.
- Eugene@Nick P. Being called something on the street is one thing. Having an organization called the Redskins is another. If it can be seen as derogatory in any way, why use it?
@Eugene. I’ve taken screen pics of the public figures you mentioned and I’ve tweeted at them about their support for your racist organization. Thank you. I didn’t know that it went THAT deep.
- Ian Campeauomg ITS A FOOTBALL TEAM in what way do you think they called the team redskins to offend people like really come on use your brain.
- Nick P@Nick P. They called the team the Redskins because the Buccaneers shared the same colours as the Washington NFL team. That’s it. No honor in that. I haven’t once called anyone any names nor told them to “use their brains”.
- Ian Campeauthe fact that you as a non native person, it telling a native person what is racist about a derogatory term is wrong in and of itself. I am a white person and I find the term redskin racist. I would never presume to tell someone else how they should feel when a term like that is used in promoting a sports team. Step outside of your self for a minute and try to see how he feels. You say he is the only one upset by this, that’s not true, he’s just the only one honest enough to call you out on it. Most would accept it and walk away, but he will one day have to explain to his kids why racism like this is just brushed aside. You won’t.
- Corey BertrandKathy Morning Star, director of the American Indian Cultural Support, states:
- white guy“ It is the responsibility of educators to set the example and teach the youth of today to respect other ethnic or minority peoples – NOT to exploit or disrespect them by using them as ‘mascots’ or stereotypical ‘images’ which perpetuates racism.
@iancampeau well youre being ridiculous, and too bad that the buccaneers and the redskins do not share the same colours but alright.anyways its a name that in NO WAY SHAPE OR FORM is being used buy ANYONE on the redskins team or affiliated with the team as a racial slur and i can assure you that so dont take offence to it because you shouldnt
- Nick PYou have no right to tell me what I find offensive. You don’t know the history of the team you play for? This is off the Nepean Redskin’s website
“The Club was formed in the South Nepean (Barrhaven) area in August of 1978 by Mr. J. Jones. The first team fielded was at the Mosquito level and the first team played was the Bell Warriors. Known as the Barrhaven Buccaneers, the team colours were maroon, gold and white—the same colours worn by the Redskins today. The Club was renamed the Redskins in 1981.”
- Ian CampeauApparently, my email is being posted in the email fields. I don’t know what’s going on with the Chez 106 but my privacy is being infringed upon.
- Ian Campeaumy mistake thought you were talking about NFL so it was renamed in 1981 now all of a sudden 30 years later there is a big fuss about it.. hmm people shouldnt take offence to the name because the organization and the coaching staff and the hundreds of players on the the team are not racist and mean no racial slurs by it. get over it and let us be without worrying about are name being changed
- Nick PThis is ridiculous, I played football in the same league, against the team in question. Never has the organization been anything but fair on the field, and well run. Regardless, the argument is being made by someone within the organization that the name “Redskins” is not racist and should not be equated with “nigger”; to the point that this represdentative made it clear that the N word repulsed him to even write it. Okay. His Argument is that because numerous generations of players, parents, politicians, and governmental bodies have paid into this team, and that numerous generations of banquets have been held using the brand “Redskins”; even going so far to say because the NFL deems it fine, that the term should not be viewed as racist. Are you kidding me? So, what you are saying is that because it is a word used as common place in society, and the folks using it don’t feel it is offensive, that any opposition to its use is simply a witch hunt against a decent organization? In the 1950s, the word “nigger” was used in common place, and the folks using the word didn’t see a problem with the word. A name given to people simply because of the colour of their skin. Hmmm. Other terms like ‘darky’ and ‘spook’ have been used to point out people simply because the colour of their skin. “Redskin”. Why would you think that is not a slur against someone because of the color of their “skin”. IT’S RIGHT IN THE NAME!!! Stop being clowns and change the name. And CHEZ, seriously, it’s cute that Randall has his moment on the radio, and yes, shock jocks sell advertising, but we all know that opinions are like assholes… As I said, the team on the field is probably full of great kids with great parents who support the city and it’s sports; and hell, they probably don’t give it a thought that the brand they support offends a whole society of our indigenous peoples. Yup, and I am also sure the folks that made the nice woman sit at the back of the bus on that very important and influential day thought nothing of it either. Idiotic argument. Please do better next time. Change the name.
- Ryan Kerr@Nick P. Because it’s 30 years later means we can’t be offended by it? It needs to be changed now. For real. Oh and there isn’t any “honoring” going on in with the Washington name. The original team was in Boston and chose the “Braves” because of the Boston baseball team had the same name. That’s it. It was chosen the Braves out of convenience. After a poor attendance at a championship game, the owner got mad at it’s fans and moved the team to Washington and changed the name to the Redskins.
- Ian Campeau@NickP What is your problem?! Whether the intent was to offend someone or not is WAY besides the point. The fact is, the word (or term) is a racist one. Can you argue that? I’m not saying you are, but you sure are coming off as a bigot in all your posts. What’s your affiliation to the club anyways? Why are you okay with the public usage of racist language? There is a quote (granted I don’t know the author) that goes “What you permit, you promote”. So by permitting the public use of a racist term, whether or not is is aimed at one individual or not, it is aimed at a group of people…and so does that make it better, if they aren’t trying to insult one person, but a whole bunch of them?
What are we teaching our kids? If we permit the term “redskins”, we’re promoting it. We (the adults, and ones who make the decisions in this world) are saying the term redskins is an appropriate thing to call someone. And it is a word/term that is okay to be in our everyday language…but as has been stated above, nigger, chink, spic…those aren’t…but Redskins is…in Canada? Our home ON native land?
- Derek StoppelsBy the way, I’m not saying anyone in the Redskins organization is a racist. Just the name is and I believe it is a worthy cause to change the name.
- Derek Stoppelslets start a new league..the gatIneau frogs, the south ottawa darkies, the east ottawa frenchies the west ottawa muzzy’s and the nepean redskins….ya that sounds about right……CHANGE THE NAME!!!
- DISGUSTEDI understand that the Nepean Redskins would like to use aboriginal people as a symbol of bravery, fearlessness, and a force to be reckoned with on the field. I as an aboriginal person am honored. However, I’m sure they can keep the same imagery and use a name that is not seen as derogatory or offensive to aboriginal people. For a change just be decent human beings with a conscious, understanding, and compassion. Take it upon yourself to do the right thing. I’m sure the kids will understand. How about the Napean Tomahawks or warriors.
- Justin PAlright, how about this. It’s racial discrimination. It’s singling out an entire race. The team isn’t the called the “Nepean Everybodys”. It’s called the Redskins. It’s marginalizing, wrong and offensive.
- Ian CampeauRacial discrimination is the illegal expression of racism. It includes any action, intentional or not, that has the effect of singling out persons based on their race, and imposing burdens on them and not on others!! CHANGE THE NAME!!! E-MAIL THERE SPONSORS THERE JUST AS GUILTY! AND RANDAL MOORE YOUR A JOKE! change the name and let the kids play! simple!!
- DISGUSTEDYou guys are such jokes, grow up I’m a 19 year old and I can look passed simple stupid words, all you want is attention, publicity, its a name get over it the organization staff coaches and players mean it in no way as a racial slur leave the team be next thing you know we won’t even be allowed to have names because all people do is complain.. And I though I was a kid
- Nick Pif we’re going to call a spade a spade, perhaps consider changing the name of the team to the ‘Nepean Illiterates’, as that seems to be much closer to the mark. together we can put a positive spin on the word and focus on how it generalizes athletic prowess at the expense of other skills
i welcome any rebuttal from the coaches of this fine organization – i think i can have you all quickly convinced that it’s the right thing to do.
whom do i lobby to effect this idea?
- DaveWhether or not there is any racist “intent” is irrelevant. The point is that the word ‘redskin’ is racist. It is time to change it.
- Harry WilliamsThen you might as well call upp the national football leauge and tell them to change the washington redskins name if its SOOOO offensive..like seriously.. Complain some more why don’t you
- Nick PNick,
you definitely show your age. A little maturity puts it in perspective
- Corey BertrandI’m sure someone wrote his paper on this subject back in high school. I’m glad idiot isn’t a racist term. If he’d really like to test his theory out, I suggest he drive to the nearest reserve walk up to the first Native woman he sees and call her a redskin, she’ll set him straight or should I say laid out.
- David SmithNick P,
You are a kid. ”Looking passed[sic]” words is admitting your naivety, and ignorance. As long as this is a ‘joke’ to you, your opinion isn’t worth consideration.
It certainly is a global issue, however, this discussion is focused on the Nepean team.
- JacksonThe organization is not inherently racist, but their name is. Change it.
i would also like to add that i would rather stick a microphone in a trough and listen to a frantic pig grunt through his evening slops than listen to the senile ramblings of randall moore.
- Davehere’s the deal: there doesn’t seem to be any question that ‘redskin’ is an offensive term aimed a single group of people. so why not change the team name? the arguments against doing so (according to the comments above) appear to be as follows:
1. the nepean redskins are somehow single-handedly changing the context and value of the word so that it is now a ‘positve’ thing. they’re putting the ‘grow’ back in negro and the spic back in spictacular, and everyone just needs to chill out and look at the bright side of things
2. there are homeless people in ottawa, therefore we should not be concerned about this particular issue
3. if the team gives into this name change, our beloved aunt jemima pancakes will be next to go, and the world will crumble into a sappy mess of oversensitivity
4. the name has been around for 30 years and is therefore is beyond criticism
5. when applied to a sports team, the word ‘redskins’ is no longer offensive
6. ian campeau is in a band called ‘a tribe called red’
did i miss any?
- Davethe nepean REDSKINS name has been found to be offensive by native canadians living in ottawa, the name is described as offensive by the dictionary the logo is found to be offensive, the idea that it is deamed offensive by society should just make them change the name. not only that, Ian (the person who has started this last year) even has offerd to help with fundraising and getting sponsors to help in the change. The guy is making a valid point. and the city should wake up to this. i say let the kids play and don’t harm the team in that way but change what is considered wrong, by society in general and that is the name.
- P.M26th, 2012 at 4:36 pm
Apparently, my email is being posted in the email fields. I don’t know what’s going on with the Chez 106 but my privacy is being infringed upon.
- Ian Campeau
I smell a lawsuit,,,at least a complaint to the almighty human rights tribunal,,maybe more press for the band,,you are awesome Ian,,really awesome.
- EugeneHey Ian,,get Walmart,Canadian Tire, Sportcheck,Sears,or The Bay to stop selling Redskins merchandise, get the President to refuse to invite the Redskins to the White House if they win the Superbowl(lol)quit picking on a local Ottawa football team, who you have already admitted are NOT racist. This is about YOU, not the Nepean Redskins.
- EugeneThis e-mail address revealing has happened to me in the past too .,, perhaps a bug in the system. To avoid this, you can leave the e-mail field blank when you post (I think).
- Harry WilliamsAccording to the Oxford English Dictionary (OED), the term “redskin” came from the reddish skin color of some Native Americans, as in the terms red Indian and red man. The OED cites instances of its usage in English dating back to the 17th century and cites a use of red in reference to skin color from 1587. Multiple theories fight for prominence as to the true historical origin of the word. One theory, mentioned above, is that the term was meant as merely a physical indicator, similar to the words “white” and “black” for Caucasians and Africans, respectively. Another theory holds that it was first used by Native Americans during the 1800s as a way of distinguishing themselves from the ever-growing white population. An often mentioned third but not proven[1] [2]origin involves the bloody skins (red-skins) of Native people as “prizes,” in which they would be scalped after battle and their skins bought and sold in local towns.[3] To date there is no historical documentation or evidence to support this theory. Yet another theory is that the term “Red Indian” originated to describe the Beothuk people of Newfoundland who painted their bodies with red ochre, and was then generalized to North American indigenous people in general.[citation needed]
Nigger is a noun in the English language, most notable for its usage in a pejorative context to refer to black people, and also as an informal slang term, among other contexts. It is a common ethnic slur, usually directed at people of Sub-Saharan African descent and suggests that its target is extremely unsophisticated. The word originated as a term used in a neutral context to refer to black people, as a variation of the Spanish/Portuguese noun negro, a descendant of the Latin adjective niger (“color black”).[1][2][3][4]
Ian,,you really want to put Redskin on the same level as N**ger,,,really,,,ask an African Canadian what they think,,,we have 50 in our organization. Redskins is NOT racist.
- Eugene@eugene ..you are a disgusting representative of your fine football organisation, and you are in charge of our youth in it? JUST WOW! …ya ottawa your youth is in great hands..and randal you support this? wtg chez106! and i quote you euegene “My point is it is just about you.
I was at Bob Stephen Field today and wondered this,,I would never sign a cheque made to a group called Nepean Niggers, never. I am pretty sure very few people would. How many people have signed cheques to the Nepean Redskins,I have,,1,000′s of other parents have over the years. Several sponsors have. The City of Ottawa and the Province of Ontario have.
How many people have attended games and banquets where the “Redskins” name was featured prominently along with the indian head logo,,I have,dozens of Mayors have,,MPs, MPPs, alderman in the day,,Ben Franklin,Jan Harder, Walter Baker,Jim Watson,Bob Chiarelli, to name only a few.In all those times, all those cheques, all those City of Ottawa minutes of Parks and Recreation meetings,all those politicians speaking to banquets and doing ceremonial opening kickoffs,,did even ONE PERSON ever say,,hey wait a minute,saying the word “Redskins” in public is the same as saying the word Nigger. I think you think too much of yourself,and the terms that hurt you. I say along with most of the aforementioned people that the word Redskin is NOT racist at all.Do you really think the City of Ottawa would allow a group to put up a 30′ scoreboard with a black guys picture and Welcome to the home of The Nepean Niggers.Just typing those words now are repulsive to me.I am not repulsed by the word Redskin, YOU are, and for the last 20 years with Redskins Football being played all through Eastern Ontario and West Quebec, YOU are the first one to mention this. Really Ian, YOU, and YOU alone have started this fight.Local families, local businesses,local politicians, local governments,the NFL,Presidents of the United States,bank managers,clergy members blessing our food at banquets,doctors treating our players in hospitals, members of the community buying our chocolate bars and calanders door to door,,the list goes on and on,,have NEVER equated Redskin to Nigger. The term as it is being used by the Football Team is NOT racist and should stay for the legacy of the 1000s of players and supporters of a proud and decent group of Canadians. That is my opinion, and I am entitled to it, you can have yours.
I bet your band is getting a few more calls than it did last year,,,,good for YOU.”
and this quote by eugene
”
26th, 2012 at 4:36 pm
Apparently, my email is being posted in the email fields. I don’t know what’s going on with the Chez 106 but my privacy is being infringed upon.
- Ian Campeau
I smell a lawsuit,,,at least a complaint to the almighty human rights tribunal,,maybe more press for the band,,you are awesome Ian,,really awesome.
- Eugene
and then this
”
Hey Ian,,get Walmart,Canadian Tire, Sportcheck,Sears,or The Bay to stop selling Redskins merchandise, get the President to refuse to invite the Redskins to the White House if they win the Superbowl(lol)quit picking on a local Ottawa football team, who you have already admitted are NOT racist. This is about YOU, not the Nepean Redskins.
- Eugene
YA OTTAWA FOOTBALL IS IN GREAT HANDS…..NOT!
- P.MOk Eugene, how about this. Your team is racially discriminating against Aboriginal people by marginalizing and singling them out. Your team is called The Redskins. Not the Everybodys. Racial Discrimination under the criminal code is ILLEGAL. You’re the one who put the word “lawsuit” in my head…
- Ian CampeauEugene,
“Ian,,you really want to put Redskin on the same level as N**ger,,,really,,,ask an African Canadian what they think,,,we have 50 in our organization. Redskins is NOT racist.”
I asked my neighbour. He’s Jamaican. He said Redskin was worse than nigger today because it’s socially acceptable to use it. Now I am an Native American, and I say it is too.
You have “redskin” origin but not definition, like you do for “nigger” so please, let me show you both the dictionary definition of “redskin” and then the literal root of “nigger”
(from Oxford): Definition of redskin
noun
dated or offensive
an American Indian. (from Webster’s):
Noun
1. offensive terms for Native Americans
(synonym) Injun, red man
(hypernym) Indian, North American Indian, American Indian, Red Indian
(from dictionary.com)
red·skin (rdskn)
n. Offensive Slang
Used as a disparaging term for a Native American.
Now the root word of “nigger” comes from the Latin term “niger” or “nigrum” which literally means the colour “black”. Now is it less offensive now because you know the root origin of the word?
Eugene, are you ready to start talking about how to change the name to something not offensive to anyone, or do you want to bring even MORE attention to me and my band?
- Ian CampeauTo be fair, just because “Eugene” says he is the coach, it doesn’t make it so. I would hope that the coach of a football team wouldn’t be trolling on a web blog like a teenager in his mother’s basement.
Anyways, to end this ridiculous trend of ignorance and denial;
(from Oxford): Definition of redskin
noun
dated or offensive
an American Indian. (from Webster’s):
Noun
1. offensive terms for Native Americans
(synonym) Injun, red man
(hypernym) Indian, North American Indian, American Indian, Red Indian
(from dictionary.com)
red·skin (rdskn)
n. Offensive Slang
Used as a disparaging term for a Native American.
Ian is not alone, he is not doing this for publicity and we will not go away or be quiet. This entire conversation has been about misdirection and obfuscation, and that is because Ian is correct – and there’s no way to debate his point.
Educate youselves:
- Mark Lofthttp://aistm.org/fr.faqs.htm
To be fair, just because “Eugene” says he is the coach, it doesn’t make it so. I would hope that the coach of a football team wouldn’t be trolling on a web blog like a teenager in his mother’s basement.
- Eu@jackson
- Nick Pin no way do i think the issue of racism is a joke however i think the publicity of the ” need for a name change” is a joke. this is ALL for publicity. have you seen many native people commenting on this or raising the issue. no i didnt think so.if it was really so offensive to them i would think that this issue would be raised a long time ago and not just by one person looking for recognition. like i said earlier i dont see anyone approaching the washington redskins about this issue. why becasue they are more famos. if so we shouldnt be punished and forced to change our name just because we are a local league. people have become so politacally correct nowadays that at one point we wont be able to have any names because it is in some way offensive. Anyone remember when st patricks high school had to change their name of “the fighting irish” people need to stop being so easily offended and going off the deep end to raise these issues before we all start to cry at the drop of a hat. the name is not suggesting that we as players, coaches, presidents belive that it is right to use racial slurs but the reality is that it is JUST a name of a team (team- signifying briging people together)in no way sahpe or form does it say that native people are not welcome. might i also bring up tthe fact (since everyone keeps comparing it to the word nigger) that it is heard all over the radio stations of artist using towards themselves. what are we going to do about that i ask.
@eu
- Nick Pso let me get this straight if you all are trolling on this web blog and yet stating that since i am a kid that my opinion will be ignored but yet at the same time can make personal attacks saying that eugene is acting like a teenager yet you could be older than him. contradicks everything youve said. ignorance and stupidity
@Nick P – the idea of changing a name is Not a joke your redskin name and logo are offensive plain and simple, and yes there are groups fighting the washington redskins as-well research it. As for being politically correct, yes we are in the year 2012 where we don’t accept the idealism’s of having racial slurs/names/ period. society deams the term red skin as inappropriate, therefore it is. this isn’t 1950.Seems this deal with it and leave us alone mentality of the organisations supporters isnt going to work. people will make a stand people will boycott and people will pull funding (i think scotiabank has) Get a NEW appropriate name nepean football and all will be well.
- P.M@p.m the washington redskins will never change their name because people are too easily offended. when that day comes then im sure we willhave to follow but untill that daycomes we should not be FORCED to change our name when we are not the ones being racist, it is a name not the way we thnk of native people and does not discrminate or exclude them from being a team mate. would we all like a tissue, this ignorance is ridiculous
- Nick P@Ian, I didn’t intend to imply that you do call yourself a “redskin”, I said that as an example for an argument I had seen made earlier, “He can call himself whatever he wants…”, is one thing that had always bothered me about racial debates and racism in general.
- Kevin JAnd I realize that the word itself is generally a racial slur, and under very few circumstances is it not. But I only ask that people not call, the organization as a whole, racist. Say what you want about the name, just make sure you’re talking about the name, and not the organization. Again, that isn’t to point you out, Ian. Rather, people who go about saying “the Nepean Redskins are racist!”. I’m aware they probably mean the name, but they could at least specify, that way no one actually belittles the organization for what they aren’t.
Kevin J, you make a fair point, however you should be aware that Ian has made the organization know about this issue for quite some time. To this point he has been ignored and this issue has not been adressed by them in any way.
When you’re told that something is offensive, yet you ignore that and continue doing it; at what point do you become culpable?
- Mark Loft@nick p
I couldn’t agree with you more. people have become so sensitive that i fear what this world is coming to. sheer ignorance.
- suzyqYes, I too fear a world where blatant displays of racism are no longer tolerated. You also make an excellent point, people who stand up to rid the world of racism are displaying “sheer ignorance.”
/extreme sarcasm
- Mark Loft@M
- suzyq@markloft
your argument makes me laugh. at your stupidity though. it is not a display of racism it is a name that is wrongly seen as derrogatory. are you trying to tell me if someone called a caucasian a “whiteskin” the same arguments would be made? no it most certainly would not. as it has been previously said, people are just becoming too sensitive.
- suzyqMaybe “whiteskin” wouldn’t have the same impact on caucasians because caucasians have not been an oppressed people here and in the States. Caucasians, have been the oppressors of blacks, First Nations peoples, etc. Caucasians have largely been the ones holding the cards in terms of money and power here. So, perhaps the term ”whiteskin” wouldn’t hold the same degree of power to hurt people as “redskin”, “nigger”, etc.
- Harry Williamsoh dear lord people,the name itself is really not that hurtful. it was used as a description. it only became hurtful because of the stupidity that this world is now surrounded with.does the name say “we hate redskin” no it doesnt if anything its the other way around!so what the hell is all the fuss about!
- suzyq@suzy q
- P.MNOOOO not hurtfull at all hmmm?
(from Oxford): Definition of redskin
noun
dated or offensive
an American Indian. (from Webster’s):
Noun
1. offensive terms for Native Americans
(synonym) Injun, red man
(hypernym) Indian, North American Indian, American Indian, Red Indian
(from dictionary.com)
red·skin (rdskn)
n. Offensive Slang
Used as a disparaging term for a Native American.
@suzyq
Being called stupid by the likes of you is high praise. I shouldn’t be too harsh however, based on your grammar and punctuation, you’re at least partially illiterate.
If you *were* actually able to read, you’d have read that the LITERAL dictionary definition of the word “Redskin” is that it’s a racist term.
Anyways, thanks for telling everybody how they are supposed to feel, and congratulations on finally posting your insult – it only took you two tries!
- Mark LoftI think the stupidity is likely found in some of the people who don’t know the anything of the history of racism in North America — stupidity, along with ignorance and intellectual laziness. Ridiculous when information is a search engine away.
- Harry Williamsso you’re telling me that we are such harsh people and yet your sitting there sending direct insults. you are so much better. its a blog get over yourself and your perfect punctuation no one cares. but thanks for comin out bud!
- suzyq@ p.m yeah we get it already thats been posted ment times.
@markloft
get over yourslef
- Nick PUh, you started the insults, genius. You argue like a child. Why don’t you address any of the points i’ve actually made and quit making things up – it’s embarassing.
- Mark Loft@suzy q and @nick p
- P.Mthe question is then do you want the youth of today wearing the name *redskin* and knowing what it REALLY means, or what you PERCEIVE it to be? i would again put the TRUE meaning here but since you say you have seen it that’s fine.
Mark, that’s fair, but from the organizations point of view, if they only hear from one person or even a hundred, out of the thousands, how do they know that those people aren’t just over sensitive? It has only been in more recent times where this has been a more well known issue, and I don’t mean to give an excuse to excuse a name that is most commonly, and almost always a racial slur. Either way in hindsight, the name was a bad and seemingly a flat out stupid idea, but hindsight is always 20/20.
And then there is the cost issue of new equipment and branding, that itself takes quite a bit of time and from what I understand, more money than most people seem to realize.
But because the team hasn’t made these changes overnight, for what is a relatively new publicly known/mainstream issue, doesn’t make the organization racist. The fact that they haven’t changed the name in general doesn’t make the team or organization racist. From what I understand they are a team that exemplifies great attributes that people want to be displayed in youth. So long as they are an upstanding team and organization, made of upstanding players, coaches and other individuals who are involved, the name is the only thing that is wrong. At this point, a poorly chosen name is representing a great organization, and is starting to tarnish it, because people are judging a book by its cover.
Now, I’m not a racially sensitive person, racial slurs, to me they are simply words, they shouldn’t have the power to belittle others as much as calling someone a “waste of life” or some other nonsense like that. So I, admittedly, don’t personally understand the feeling of offence from racial slurs on their own, as there is no context to them, but I do understand that there is offence felt. And that is not to say that there is no racism of course. And of course racial slurs are a bad thing, as the contexts they are most often used with, are an ignorant attempt of belittling.
My point there is that personally, it being just a word, I think the name for the team wasn’t intended to be offensive, it isn’t saying something like the “Nepean no good redskins”(and I sincerely apologize if I offended anyone with that, but I intend it as an example). Were that the case, then I could instantly understand how and why people are offended.
- Kevin JNickP
I dont even know how to “get over myself”, that nonsenical phrase is a complete non-sequitor. If that is the best argument you can make, then save yourself the embarassment of posting again – you’ve already lost.
- Mark Loftyou have nothing better to do with your lives then sit on a blog site? congrats for your heroism. feel better? dont even try to continue this argument your embarrasing yourself and making me hate the society we live in. realistically you wont do anything more than sit behind a computer feeling all high and mighty so if you think thats enough then that just makes you look even worse. this is a waste of time and i have no more valuable time to be wasting on the people here. hopefully the redskins stick to their guns and keep the name that they have been so proud of for years.
- suzyqim like a child LOOOOL okay whos crying over a name.. thats supposivly ssssssssssssssssooooooooooooooooooooo offencive to you.. its a name of a football team, a family. the namme of that team brings us players together. goodluck trying to change it because i will make sure it doesnt
- Nick P@markloft
anyways thanks for coming out bud i have no more to say to a moron like you.. get over yourself. i know native people ALOT actually and some play on the team and they dont even find it offensive…
- Nick PThis is great! We now have people agreeing that the word is racist but their argument is basically, “Yeah, we know it’s racist but too bad; we like the name. Don’t be so sensitive and just get over it”. How far we have come as a species.
- Harry Williams@markloft
anyways thanks for coming out bud i have no more to say to a moron like you.. get over yourself. i know native people ALOT actually and some play on the team and they dont even find it offensive..
- Nick PKevinJ
I respect your point of view, you’ve certainly expressed yourself in a logical respectful way.
I am not sure if you’re aware, but Ian has offered to fundraise to change the uniforms. He has also made numerous other suggestions with no response whatsoever. That to me dosn’t show any integrity that this organization is supposed to display.
Further to that, the coach is on here (if he is indeed the coach) acting insultingly smug in a very embarassing way, it certainly doesn’t send a very positive image to me.
I realize that it probably wasn’t started or intended to be insulting, but the fact remains that it is. Yes, it has been around for a long time, that doesn’t excuse it for what it is. Plenty of things have been phased out over time as they become outdated or flat-out offensive. It’s never too late to change, and that definitely would be a positive step.
Cheers
- Mark Loft@Harry Williams “We now have people agreeing that the word is racist…” Personally I don’t believe that the word in itself is racist, I believe the context of which it gets used in, makes it a racial slur. Call me a “whiteskin”, well, that’s a fair point, it is a perfectly accurate observation, I have white skin. But, call me a “stupid, no good whiteskin” now THAT is when it is offensive.
- Kevin Jthe word redskin can be used as a racial slur if used in that way. but its the name of are team witch we wear proud. we are in no way shape or form racist but the name brings us together and breaking up a family buy changing the name is wrong
- Nick PKevin J
I think it’s analogous to the N word. No matter the intent behind saying “Nigger”, that’s a racist term, period, end of story. I’m sure you would agree.
a racist term is a racist term, and if you named a team any other racial slur – it certainly wouldn’t be tolerated.
- Mark Loft@NICK P…No one is breaking up anything…same people…different non racial slur name…simple!
- P.MMark; I think I know exactly what you’re point is. And I don’t mean to make an excuse for the name, but regarding Ian offering to help fundraise, I haven’t heard both sides of that story so I try to hold judgement until I have. I just think there is more to the cost and more effort required to make the name change, than people are realizing. And I don’t intend to suggest as if Ian has not offered any help in fundraising or ideas apart from requesting a name change. If he says, and others say he has, I believe them.
Second, I think they coach acting like a smug moron was probably someone trolling. I had seen a comment by them that said they love the organization, and that the organization(Not referring to the name”redskins” but the people that make it) are not racist. But I’ve not bothered reading the angry/insulting comments.
And third, of course change is/can be a positive step, for the longest time gay marriage wasn’t promoted or even allowed, now, if there is a gay couple, not only is it allowed, but promoted. And the accepted members in society can’t argue that it hasn’t been a change for the better. But I think most would agree that these 2 subjects are on the same level. To the name change, I’m impartial, if the majority, or even just a moderate portion of people are offended then they should change it. But, I would have no problems if they called it the whiteskins, albeit, I’m sure some would.
- Kevin J@Kevin J With the amount of controversy and hurt that this word has caused, I find the blind allegiance to it among it’s supporters to be puzzling.
My point is that a significant number of people find the word ‘redskin’ to be racist and offensive. It is controversial to say the very least. The ‘redskin’ vs. ‘whiteskin’ argument doesn’t wash with me because of the history of the word ‘redskin’ and the fact that First Nations peoples are a minority in this country and have a history of oppression by caucasians – a tragic and disturbing history. There is not an equal balance of power and influence here by any stretch.
It is sheer arrogance for supporters of this team to dismiss the feelings of many First Nations people on this issue and then try to turn it around and say the people who want the name changed are jerks who are ‘out to hurt the kids’. Arrogance and willful ignorance.
- Harry WilliamsMark; “a racist term is a racist term, and if you named a team any other racial slur – it certainly wouldn’t be tolerated.”
That’s just it… To me, if it has no context to it, then it is not a racist word. If the individual were to want to offend with the use of the word, then yes, I see it as racist. To me it’s just a collection of letters, they way it gets used is what makes it offensive, otherwise it’s merely a word. Someone can say “I love you too” but within the tone and context it can be very hateful, but does that mean that we’re not allowed to say that?
- Kevin JKevin J
well put, I think we’re mostly in aggreeance.
To let you know where I am coming from, I am first nations, I’m Mohawk to be exact. I find the name pretty offensive. I also find the symbol to be stereotypical and stereotypes are not only offensive, but they can be harmful too. Have a look at this cartoon to see what I mean.
http://www.aistm.org/cartoons4.htm
In any case, I’ve enjoyed our back and forth. Cheers
- Mark Loft@Mark; It has been nice to have a conversation on the internet without being insulted. If only that happened this entire thread. And I agree, I understand completely where you’re coming from, and you have the right to feel offended by something like that, and you have the right to want it changed. However I think stereotypes are sometimes offensive, but not always, at least when directed at my heritage, but I take them with humour because the Scottish, Irish and Welsh stereotypes I think are more founded for humour. But like I agree with the stereotyped “Chief” logo, I honestly find that to be offensive.
- Kevin J@Harry – The colour blue is the bloodiest colour in history, wars were waged for regions that could supply blue dye, the majority of people to wear blue were wealthy, and powerful, hence the names “regal blue” and “royal blue” but does that mean anyone wearing blue today are war mongers, or royalty? I’m aware that it is an odd, and not exact comparison, but my point is that meanings and representations have changed, and will change with the passage of time. That’s not to say that racial slurs are gone or that you shouldn’t be offended, but to me they should’t carry the same weight they once did during the peak of oppression against the people it was against. I mean there was a time where being called Scottish or Irish when was an insult to you and you’re family. But since those quarries and conflicts were settled, so? Who cares if you call a Scotsman a Scotsman? Lastly to, nothing you can say to be can be offensive without a context. BUT-thats my opinion, and I was merely stating that as my opinion earlier.
And I never intended to imply that people were wrong to be offended,I understand that you can be offended by the term. I understand that not everyone is like me in believing that they are merely words until a context is applied.
And feelings shouldn’t be dismissed regardless of race/heritage, we’re all people, we should all be considerate of each other. Which is why I say, if it offends enough people (because there is always bound to be one person offended by something) then yes, by all means change the name. BUT! I also say, Since I’m not one of the offended, what right do I have to demand a change? Similar, if I were to feel offended by it, and you not, I wouldn’t expect you to want or request a change to the name.
- Kevin JKevin J
I’m a firm believer in the golden rule, if you were offended by something that insulted your heritage – I would stand right beside you in your demand to change it. That’s purely because I believe in equality, it’s a righteous cause and it’s not owned by any single group, heritage, culture or race.
Cheers
- Mark LoftMark; Way to make me feel like a selfish moron! Haha
But I see what you mean. It’s just for me, since the name has no aggressive or harsh intentions, I see just the word as not offensive, and since I see it that way I can’t personally be a true flag carrier for the change, sort of idea. After hearing different views and realizing how offended people are by it, however I do think they should change the name, but it will take time.
At the very least I think they should change their logo, I’m not sure why, but that would offend me more than the name.
- Kevin JThis is all soooo shameful to read. Eugene, you are a disgrace… this is all so sad to read. Its a name change, simple as that.
May i also point out that Ians band has been successful long before this discussion…because it has. Kudos Ian for standing up and doing whats right for our community.
- PatrickAs a Canadian of Japanese descent, I would be offended if the team’s name was the ‘Nepean Nips’, and I don’t see how calling them the ‘Nepean Redskins’ is any less racist or offensive.
The intent may not have been to offend, but the fact remains, the term has historically racist connotations, and moreover, First Nations people who are living here and now are stating that they find the team name offensive. To ignore their feelings and beliefs _is_ to deliberately invalidate them as a people, and it’s saying to them: “I’m not First Nations so I don’t know how offensive the team name is… and I don’t care. I don’t care about how racist and stereotypical a depiction the logo/mascot is, or how patronizing. I don’t care that that sort of patronizing depiction of the First Nations people was part and parcel of the typical white European colonialist view of the the First Nations people as being ‘the noble savage’. I don’t care because it doesn’t affect me or anyone I know personally.”
It’s not that the team organization is racist in the Ku Klux Klan sense. No one is characterizing them as people skulking about at night and burning crosses on people’s lawns. But if the team organization continues to ignore the pleas of the First Nations people, and continue to basically give a big middle finger to their thoughts and feelings, it’s saying to them: “My culture is more important than yours, and my sports team name is more important than your thoughts, feelings and beliefs as a people.”
And _that_ is racist.
- Sotaro Shibaharai’m native american, got my aboriginal affairs issued status card to prove it (there’s no such thing as free gas for aboriginals, btw). minnesota vikings. nothing racist about that name. redskins sounds like something much more derogatory. i understand that these sports teams want a name that inspires ferocity, and strength. no one would call their team the whatever city butterflies when their sports team’s intent is to crush the competition. the nepean butterflies. the ottawa daisies. i think that if you name your team in reference to an race of people you should be very careful, especially if you use a term that describes that race in euro-centric ignorant language. the atlanta japs. wtf. the toronto chinks. the detroit towel-heads. the washington redskins. come on. you and i both know that the name is derogatory. just break with tradition and show your enlightened evolution and choose another name for yourself. especially if the very race of people you named yourself after are TELLING you that they are offended by that name. should i publicly design a logo, have the media refer to, and have anyone who’s interested in my team uphold a derogatory name for a race of PEOPLE who are my very neighbours, schoolmates, co-workers? have a contest: re-name the nepean redskins. i’ll donate some prize money. design a new logo. i’ll donate some prize money. positive evolution.
- GoliathI used to play for the Barrhaven redskins in their mosquito, pee-wee and bantam programs and I will definitely agree that it is a great organization to be a part of…but people dont seem to realise the integrity of the organization is not what is (or should be) discussed here..(mind you the fact that the team hasnt even had the decency to reply to any of Ian’s attempts to contact them is a bit suspect to me but thats a whole other issue)it is the use of a racial term used as the team name. All i see in alot of these posts are ignorant people trying to downplay something that is clearly wrong. How does changing a team name break up a familly Nick P? Will the name change make you run slower? Or forget how to tackle?? Being a black male, it always amazes me at the excuses people will make up to make them feel like they’re not being racist(or in this case supporting racism) or doing something wrong..the people arguing this change really need to step back and just think for a moment. why exactly are you so upset over this? Its clear why Ian and other people in the aboriginal community are upset(even though many of you have tried to twist his words) but why is changing a name that is hurtful to others getting you so angry?? It makes no sense to me at all…the guy has offered to help raise funds to help with what i see could be the only real reason one would have to complain.(a weak one at that but i’ll give you a leg to stand on for arguement sake)..and if any of you really knew who A Tribe Called Red were you would jump at the offer he is giving because chances are they would raise all of the funds needed..Yes, A Tribe Called Red is that big in the music scene. Just reading the posts from Nick P and Suzie q, who i assume judging by their posts r both young teens, really makes me sad for our future society..if this is their way of reasoning things and what they are being taught about dealing with issues such as this one i fear we have an even bigger problem then we think!
- Aldrick TheodoreI support Ian Campeau for the simple fact that calling anyone redskins is racist. I don’t think the team would like to be called Whiteskins would they?
- Cara.
Change that team’s name to Nepean REDNECKS because looking at their list of politicians and suppoters that’s what they are. Then you don’t have to change their colours and put Harper’s head as the logo.Just calling a spade a spade. Yo My Nish!
- JaniceThis quote from an article about Campeau’s campaign warrants reiteration: “My point is, would you call someone you don’t know a redskin?” EXACTLY!
- Nick StorringThe subject of inappropriate team mascots has a long history in this continent and some teams have responded by changing their names to something that is more conducive to an environment of respect and fair play. Scientific research shows that mascots and Indian stereotypes, regardless of if they are “good” images or “bad” images, cause depressed self esteem, decreased community worth, and decreased possible selves–even when students say the images don’t bother them.
I would like to connect this local issue with the efforts made by FIFA in the past years to combat the extreme culture of racism in that sport. In fact, one of FIFA’s statues explicitly states: “Discrimination of any kind against a country, private person or group of people on account of ethnic origin, gender, language, religion, politics or any other reason is strictly prohibited and punishable by suspension or expulsion.” Internationally, racism is slowly being eradicated from sport; I would like to see the same effort made locally within the City of Ottawa.
As a mother, it is horrific to see community leaders openly supporting such an example of hatred and ignorance. I strive very hard to create a better world in which my son can grow and to teach the values of respect, justice, and integrity. The Nepean Redskins are located in unceeded Algonquin territory, and I believe that they have an obligation to respect and recognize the culture and traditions of the people of this land. The team is telling non-Native kids that it is acceptable to use the term “Redskin” without reflecting on the racist implications of the term.
Change the Name!!
- anaI’m with Ian, and it’s not difficult to understand why.
Tradition is the irrational banner that ignorance hides behind.
Let me suggest this, empathy. Try to imagine yourself being misrepresented in a discriminatory way. If you can’t, allow me to assist.
Historically women have been marginalized. What if the team had an offensive name towards women highlighted be a stereotypical image and logo? Primitive Black American slave representations? Homosexual stereotypes? Balding white warmongering men?
It’s not difficult to imagine.
What I fear is polarization. These football playing kids will survive the name change. Bigger issues will arise in their yet to be realized lives.
The worst thing we, as educated adults and leaders, can do is stick them with the legacy of fighting for a dying cause. How will they explain their battle to their children? Or future players of the team? This type ignorance dies with every generation that holds on to it so we’ll be long gone while they unknowingly deal with our mistakes.
It’s painfully obvious what needs to happen.
- Caleb AbbottPS – In regards to why is this happening now, being a news item today, “no one cared before so why now”, “Ian on a soapbox”, etc.,
All news items are generally current. All discoveries happen at one point. Some things go unnoticed and are then realized (women’s rights, gay rights, civil rights, human rights, student rights, union rights,…) And, as we adamantly teach our youth, it only takes one person to instigate change.
I feel sorrow that this type of logic needs to be explained to adults.
- Caleb AbbottTanisi all, As a Metis teacher from Saskatchewan, I see a great opportunity to teach the Nepean Redskins Football team, parents,coaches and other teachers etc. about the issue in all of its glory, controversy, perspectives to the best of my ability. I’d be willing to volunteer my services to conduct a talking circle, provide examples of our beautiful cultures including history, identity and stereotyping on me. A ripe, always timely subject again that will not go away, think of the Chicago Black Hawks, Florida State Seminoles, Columbus Blue Jackets and other sports teams that ‘borrow’ our tribes, chiefs, warriors to promote their image and make millions on merchandise with these images..I remember this issue decades ago with the Washington Redskins when a brave First Nations woman almost singlehandedly challenged the organization to change the logo…the owner, Jack Kent Cooke said the same thing we’re hearing now, comments like ‘we honour the brave, courage and strength of the warrior’ and then said no…but the image that stuck with me was the interview with a black player on the team who said ‘it really doesn’t matter what I think, what matters is what the Native Americans think’….so, the offer still stands, Nepean, education ‘is’ our buffalo (a Western thought which I can teach you about)…I’m ready
- Bruce SinclairSome really superb information, Sword lily I noticed this. “Traffic signals in New York are just rough guidelines.” by David Letterman.
- adoption