WFT Bans Native American-Inspired Dress At Fedex Field

Washington announced Wednesday that Native American-inspired headdresses and face paint will be banned from FedEx Field. In years past, some fans wore makeup and other apparel reflecting the team's old name, which was phased out last summer. Across the NFL and other professional sports leagues, teams have made similar moves away from offensive chants, traditions, and costumes.

The rule is included in the team's 2021 season protocols for the stadium."We are excited to welcome everyone back wearing their Burgundy & Gold," the new policy reads. "However, Native American inspired ceremonial headdresses or face paint may no longer be worn into the stadium."

Washington will hold a practice at the stadium today with approximately 20,000 fans expected. It will be the biggest crowd since the home finale in 2019. It will be known as the Football Team for 2021, with the permanent name being announced "early in 2022," according to team president Jason Wright. He has said they don't want to announce the name until they have also settled on a logo and a new branding of the organization as well as completing the trademark process.

The new policy also states that the Washington Football Team's new name will have "no ties to Native American imagery." One potential moniker that had been floated around, "Warriors," has been ruled out.

Last month, Washington president Jason Wright wrote on the team's website that the team's new name will not link itself to Native American imagery.

"We have 89 years of history in this league and failing to acknowledge our past use of Native imagery in the consideration of the new name wouldn't be mindful of the individuals and communities that were hurt by the previous name," Wright said "We've made significant changes in our organization and our culture, and our new name must reflect these changes. To that end, we will choose an identity that unequivocally departs from any use of or approximate linkage to Native American imagery."

Washington is expected to announce its new name and logo in 2022 but will keep the burgundy and gold coloring.