United States Patent and Trademark Office Cancels the Redskins Trademark

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So, The United States Patent and Trademark Office has cancelled the Redskins trademark registration. Another overreach by the Federal Government. This ruling doesn't mean that the Redskins need to change their name, yet. But this does mean that others could make money of the Redskins logo now.

Washington Post – The United States Patent and Trademark Office has canceled the Washington Redskins trademark registration, calling the football team’s name “disparaging to Native Americans.”

The landmark case, which appeared before the Trademark Trial and Appeal Board, was filed on behalf of five Native Americans. It was the second time such a case was filed. “This victory was a long time coming and reflects the hard work of many attorneys at our firm,” said lead attorney Jesse Witten, of Drinker Biddle & Reath.

Federal trademark law does not permit registration of trademarks that “may disparage” individuals or groups or “bring them into contempt or disrepute.” The ruling pertains to six different trademarks associated with the team, each containing the word “Redskin.”

In the past, Redskins Team Owner Team owner Daniel Snyder, has described the team’s name in a letter to fans as a “badge of honor,”and he has said he will never change it. Of course Democrats in the U.S. Senate have applauded the move.

Moving forward, I expect the Redskins to win in an appeal.