Redskins Trademark Ruling Could Have Impact in Tewksbury, Throughout Massachusetts

On the surface, it doesn't appear that the Washington Redskins have much in common with Tewksbury Memorial High School sports teams.

But according to one report, a recent decision by the United States Patent and Trademark Office could have ramifications in Tewksbury and at other Massachusetts high schools.

According to CNN and other media reports, on Wednesday the Patent and Trademark Office canceled six trademarks that belong to the Washington Redskins of the National Football League. The decision is a part of ongoing controversy over whether the name Redskins is considered offensive to Native Americans.

The Redskins can continue to to use the Redskins name and brand, but CNN reported that if the decision is upheld, it will be difficult to stop others from making unlicensed merchandise.

CBS Sports reported that Washington Redskins president Bruce Allen said the organization was not concerned about the decision, saying "We'll be fine."

So what do the Washington Redskins have to do with Massachusetts Interscholastic Athletic Association teams?

The Boston Herald reported that more than 40 high schools around Massachusetts use Native American mascot names or images, and those could be in jeopardy as a result of the Redskins decision.

New England Anti-Mascot Coalition organizer Pete Sanfacon told the Boston Herald that he believes there will "some movement" over the next few years to remove names that could be considered offensive, and added there has been discussion over recent months about what has been happening with the Redskins situation.

In the same Boston Herald article, Tewksbury Athletics Directer Brian Hickey said his school's Redmen name is not intended to offend, but instead honor.

Superintendent of Schools John O'Connor declined comment when contacted by Patch, saying he did not have enough information yet on the trademark decision to comment.

"I think we go out of our way to honor the people who were here first in this country," said Hickey, according to the Boston Herald. "I think most of the people in Tewksbury feel that way. Most people understand that it’s a point of honor for us and our town, and we try to do honor to them."

What is your take on the Washington Redskins trademark decision? Do you believe Massachusetts schools with Native American mascots and logos should be forced to change them? Let us know in the comments section below.