Name changes in Major League Baseball aren’t new. Franchises like the Houston Colt .45s evolved into the Astros, reflecting the city’s space-age aspirations, while the California Angels rebranded as the Los Angeles Angels to better reflect their market.
But the 2021 decision to change the Cleveland Indians to the Cleveland Guardians wasn’t about branding-it was about confronting a deeper issue: the harmful legacy of Native American stereotypes in sports.
Now, nearly four years later, that chapter has reopened following remarks from President Donald Trump. In a recent Truth Social post, Trump condemned the Guardians name and urged a return to the Indians moniker.
He linked his comments to a broader push to reverse what he views as unnecessary changes in professional sports, even threatening to obstruct the Washington Commanders’ stadium deal unless they revert to their former name.
Trump declared that “massive numbers” of Native Americans want the Indians name restored and described the name change as an erasure of heritage. However, his statements quickly drew sharp rebuke from Native American organizations, especially the Lake Erie Native American Council, which represents communities close to the Guardians’ home in Cleveland.
Native voices push back against Trump’s claims
In a strongly worded response, the Lake Erie Native American Council labeled Trump’s comments as “damaging and thoughtless.” The council emphasized that dehumanizing mascots and team names are not a source of pride for Native peoples, but rather perpetuate stereotypes that have long harmed Indigenous representation in American society.
“There is no honor in racist mascots,” the council stated, reaffirming its support for the Guardians name as a move toward cultural respect and inclusion. For many Native groups, the original name represented decades of marginalization, not tradition.
Guardians President Chris Antonetti also made it clear that the organization is not considering a name reversal. Speaking to media over the weekend, he said, “We’ve had the opportunity to build the Guardians brand over the past few years, and we’re excited about where it’s going.” Antonetti emphasized that the team remains focused on its future-not on revisiting old debates.
While Trump’s comments have reignited discussion, fan reactions have been mixed. Some express nostalgia for the old name, while others believe the team’s identity should reflect values of inclusion and progress.
Ultimately, despite political pressure, the Guardians-and those supporting the name-appear firm in their decision. The team, the city, and Native advocates are united in one message: progress will not be reversed for the sake of outdated traditions.
Read the full article here
