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Two days after the Cleveland Indians announced they would discuss changing the franchise’s name, popular manager Terry Francona said he supports the idea of going by the name “Indians.”
“I think it’s time to move on,” Francona said Sunday in a Zoom call after the team’s Sunday practice (via Associated Press). “I’ve been thinking about it and I’ve been thinking about it before we released that statement. I know that in the past when I was asked if it was our name or Chief Wahoo, I think he would generally respond and let’s say I know we never try to be disrespectful.
“And I still feel that way. But I don’t think it’s a good enough answer today. I think it’s time to move on. It’s a very difficult issue. It’s also a delicate one.”
The Cleveland franchise has become the nickname of the “Indians” since 1915, after having also been called “Bronchos” and “Siestas”. Sports teams using Native American images, whether in the form of names or design elements, have been a growing source of controversy. On Friday, the NFL Washington Redskins also announced that they would consider changing the name of their team. The Atlanta Braves, however, do not seem inclined to make any changes at this time. A number of college sports programs have moved from Native American-inspired nicknames over the years, and now that movement seems to have reached the professional level.
The Indians themselves have gradually removed the “Chief Wahoo” logo, in part due to MLB pressure. The Indians removed the logo from their uniforms entirely before the 2019 season, the same year they hosted the All-Star Game.
While no decision has been made, Francona’s voice is important: He has led the Indians to a pennant and four total playoff appearances in seven seasons on the job, and will likely increase momentum for change.
In case the Indians decide the change is warranted, we have provided some suggestions for the team’s next name.
