CLEVELAND – Cleveland Indians will consult with Native American groups when the team considers changing its name for the first time since 1915.
Owner Paul Dolan elaborated on the steps the team is taking in a possible name change amid a national movement to remove racist symbols and monuments.
Earlier this week, Dolan met with Cleveland players, members of the main office, and manager Terry Francona to discuss the possibility of a name change and other issues, such as social justice and race relations.
Dolan called the talks “sincere and productive.”
“Our players care about organization and feel strongly about social justice and racial equality,” Dolan said on the eve of the team’s delayed start to the season. “I support your interest in using your platform to unite our city and our nation through your actions.
“As I explained to our players, I am involved in engaging our community and appropriate stakeholders to help determine the best path forward regarding our team name. In the coming weeks, we will engage Native American leaders to understand Better your perspectives, meet local civic leaders, and continue to listen to the insights of our players, fans, partners, and employees.
“We feel a real sense of urgency to discuss these perspectives with key stakeholders, while taking the time to ensure that those conversations are inclusive and meaningful.”
The decision to consider a name change comes immediately after the Washington NFL team’s decision to change their nicknames and remove a logo deemed racist and offensive by many.
Cleveland removed the controversial Chief Wahoo logo from its in-game caps and shirts after the 2018 season. The cartoon had been part of the team’s history since the 1930s.
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