Chiefs asked to change name, imagery by Indigenous leaders

When the Washington Redskins changed their long-standing name to the “Football Team” and finally “The Commanders,” you knew it was only a matter of time that “Chiefs” would be in jeopardy. Now, on National Indigenous People’s Day, leaders are, once again asking the Chiefs to change their team name and imagery.

The Chiefs Tweeted the following to honor Indigenous people on their day of celebration.

It appears some leaders would still like to see Kansas City change its name, which has existed since 1963 as a group of indigenous leaders gathered outside Arrowhead Stadium today before the team’s Monday Night Football game against the Las Vegas Raiders.

The group was started by individuals at Haskell University and the University of Kansas. It started with the monicker “Stop the Chop.”

Two years ago, the Chiefs stopped fans from wearing costumes that had anything to do with Native American heritage.  The Not In Our Honor Coalition have spoken about other aspects of the team that they say are inappropriate, including the team’s name.

Members plan to demonstrate at future home games. Protests normally take place about two hours before each home game.

Fans can learn more about the effort at EndRacismKC.org.