SoylentNews

Zinho [soylentnews.org] writes:

Local [washingtonpost.com], national [npr.org], and international [bbc.co.uk] news outlets are reporting on the latest in the Washington Redskins' trademark disputes with the Native American population.

The U.S. Patent and Trademark Office has revoked the trademark of the NFL's Washington Redskins, after ruling in a case brought by five Native Americans who say the name disparages them. While the decision could have wide repercussions, it does not require the team to change its name. It is also subject to appeal, which the team has confirmed it will pursue.

The trademarks have been cancelled before, but the cancellation was overturned on appeal.

Even though the team can continue use of the name after the trademark cancellation (even if the current appeal fails), the logos and other cancelled trademarks could no longer be enforced. Considering how much money the team makes on merchandising they could take a considerable hit financially due to counterfeit product.

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