In this past week's new episode of South Park, the hugely popular Comedy Central cartoon show, the writers decided to target a hot topic (just one of many right now) in the NFL: ethnic stereotyping. Making light of serious situations is obviously nothing new for South Park, as it's almost of new popular celebrity or organization every week. But as an avid sports fan, this one really struck my view. The topic of discussion is polarizing. If you didn't know the background, here it is: The debate is nothing new. The name has been around for decades with national protests beginning all the way back in 1988. Various Native American groups have stated that naming Washington DC based NFL team the "Redskins" is offensive, demeaning, and mocks our country's oldest inhabitants. The owner, Dan Snyder has remained firm on the issue and has refused to change. Some Native American groups actually side with Snyder saying that naming an NFL team is not meant to offend anyone and instead can be seen as a sign of respect. Obama has even weighed in on the controversy, saying the name should be changed. In fact as of recent the team lost its US trademark and thus explains why Dan Snyder in the video is confronting Cartman who is also calling himself the Washington Redskins (you can look up the video). Personally I don't think the Washington Redskins being named the Washington Redskins is the worst thing in the world and I think some people should honestly chill out. There are other professional team mascots that reference Native Americans (Florida State Seminoles and the Kansas City Chiefs). I'd love to know your thoughts on this since this is such an interesting, polarizing debate.
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