Sweden's Frolunda Indians hockey club has announced plans to change its name and logo featuring a Native American chief, joining a growing number of sports clubs ditching their Native American mascots.
The use of Native American names and symbols in sports has become controversial, and the Washington Redskins NFL team withdrew its name and logo in July over concerns that it was cultural appropriation of indigenous cultures.
English rugby club Exeter Chiefs refused to follow suit, saying its logo showed "respect", but still retired its mascot known as "Big Boss".
"Using the Indian logo is not sustainable for the future," said a Frolunda spokesperson.
Due to the financial strain caused by the Covid-19 pandemic, the Gothenburg-based club, officially known as Frolunda HC, will continue with their Indian logo and nickname this season, and will introduce the change in 2021, according to a club statement.
"Changing the logo will not be an easy process, and the club will not take it lightly either," adds Frolunda with the conclusion:
"The brand of the club, its values and soul do not rest in the symbol."
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