Title/Author:
“Redskins: Insult and
Brand” by C. Richard King
Tags:
Football (American), professional, Redskins, race, politics
Publish date:
March 1, 2016
Length:
256 pages
Rating:
5 of 5 stars (Outstanding)
Review:
For decades, the
nickname of the team that represents Washington DC in the National Football
League has been a source of controversy. The name is considered offensive by
many people. They consider the term “Redskins” a racial slur against Native
Americans. The team and the league continually defend the use of the name,
citing history and tradition as well as claiming that the term and logo
depicting a Native American honors those people.
These arguments are
debunked in this excellent book by C. Richard King, a professor of comparative
ethnic studies at Washington State University. He explores the use of the name
by the team, the history behind it and the various protests over it through the
years.
The book is not one
that presents both sides of the issue and lets the reader draw his or her own
conclusions. It is a scholarly work that decries the use of the nickname,
exposes the flaws in the usual statements defending the history and honor of
the name, and explains why it should be considered a racial insult to Native
Americans. King makes compelling arguments on each point he makes and will
leave the reader feeling angry, bewildered and disgusted at the callousness of
those who believe the name should still be used by the team.
It is also not an easy
or quick read. The reader will have to carefully review each anecdote from
Native Americans and also those of the defenders of the name, such as George
Marshall and current owner Daniel Snyder. The stories they share, while they
don’t realize it, actually make King’s argument to abolish the name stronger. King
does an excellent job of breaking down the hidden racism and condescending
nature of these arguments.
This book is one that
should be read by anyone who cares about the use of this name by the team, no matter
on what side of the issue the reader currently sits. It is compelling, persuasive
and will certainly make the reader think about what is truly meant by the name “Redskins.”
I wish to thank University of Nebraska Press for providing a copy of the book via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
Book Format Read
E-book (Kindle)
Buying links
(pre-order at time of posting):
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