Redskins’ GM says team not considering name change, says it’s ‘ludicrous’ to suggest offence

RICHMOND, Va. – Washington Redskins general manager Bruce Allen says the team isn’t considering a new nickname, adding that it’s “ludicrous” to suggest the franchise is trying to upset Native Americans.

Allen told reporters Thursday that there’s “nothing that we feel is offensive, and we’re proud of our history.”

Opposition to “Redskins” has gained momentum following last week’s symposium at the Smithsonian that was heavily critical of the use of the word, citing its history as an offensive term. Local columnists and commentators have called for the team to change its name in recent days.

The Redskins have responded with website postings featuring interviews with officials from the 70 high schools they say still called themselves “Redskins.”

Allen spoke at the ceremonial groundbreaking for the team’s training camp facility in Richmond.