Atlanta Braves Will Not Change Nickname, Looking At ‘Chop’ Celebration
Jul 13, 2020, 10:37 AM | Updated: Apr 26, 2021, 3:26 pm
A.J. Minter #33 of the Atlanta Braves pitches during summer workouts at Truist Park on July 09, 2020 in Atlanta, Georgia. (Photo by Kevin C. Cox/Getty Images)
(Photo by Kevin C. Cox/Getty Images)
ATLANTA, Ga. – The Atlanta Braves emailed their season-ticket holders on Sunday and said that they will not be changing their nickname.
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The organization did say they will look at the future of the tomahawk chop.
ESPN obtained a copy of the letter that was sent to season-ticket holders.
“The Atlanta Braves honors, respects and values the Native American community,” the letter says in part. “As an organization, we have always drawn strength from our diversity and respect for everyone. That will never change.
The Atlanta Braves said in an email to season-ticket holders that they will not be changing their name but will take a further look at the future of the tomahawk chop. https://t.co/l8Xwv4xL7r
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“We have had an active and supportive relationship with the Native American community for many years. Last fall, we furthered this relationship and pledged to meet and listen to Native American and tribal leaders from many areas, including the Eastern Band of the Cherokees [EBCI] in North Carolina. As a result, we formed a cultural working relationship with the EBCI and have also formed a Native American Working Group with a diverse collection of other tribal leaders to collaborate on matters related to culture, education, outreach, and recognition on an on-going basis.
“Through our conversations, changing the name of the Braves is not under consideration or deemed necessary. We have great respect and reverence for our name and the Native American communities that have held meaningful relationships with us do as well. We will always be the Atlanta Braves.
“As it relates to the fan experience, including the chop, it is one of the many issues that we are working through with the advisory group. The chop was popularized by our fans when Deion Sanders joined our team and it continues to inspire our players on the field. With that in mind, we are continuing to listen to the Native American community, as well as our fans, players, and alumni to ensure we are making an informed decision on this part of our fan experience.”
The Washington Redskins retired the nickname “Redskins” on Monday and will have a new team name in the coming days or weeks. The Cleveland Indians are considering a name change as well.
