Recent Redskins Logo Debate Evokes Previous Logo Change in Dedham

By Matt Schooley and Matt Perkins

Last week, the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office cancelled six trademarks that belong to the Washington Redskins of the National Football League. The decision was part of an ongoing controversy over whether the name Redskins is considered to be offensive to Native Americans. 

The Redskins, however, are able to continue to use their name and brand, but if the decision is upheld, it would be difficult to prevent others from making unlicensed merchandise. 

Currently, more than 40 high schools throughout Massachusetts use Native American mascot names or images, and those could be in jeopardy as a result of the recent Redskins move. 

The decision, however, wouldn't affect Dedham High School, as Dedham already underwent a change to its name several years ago. 

In 2007, the Dedham High School Boosters club opted to permanently retire the school's logo, which at the time was an open-mouthed Native American face, which the school had used since the 1970s, according to a Boston Globe article viaSanfacon.com. 

The move, however, only affected the school's logo, and not the name "Marauders," which the school has retained. Dedham's current logo depicts a pirate. 

Do you think schools with Native American logos or team names should change them? Let us know in the comments section below.