More Than a Word

Gr 7 Up—Controversy has been swirling for decades around the name and mascot of the Washington, DC, professional football team. Considered an offensive slur against Indigenous Americans, the mascot has been the subject of numerous protests and lawsuits. This documentary by brothers and Standing Rock Sioux members John and Kenn Little outlines the case against its use, setting the question in broader terms, including Native American campaigns for equitable access to health care, education, water rights, and much more. In the words of Suzan Shown Harjo, activist and a plaintiff in a 1992 lawsuit against the federal government to cancel the trademark registration of the team, "Everything matters. Everything is important." Other interviews present perspectives from Amanda Blackhorse, a Navajo social worker and plaintiff in another trademark lawsuit, and Philip Deloria, a Yankton Dakota and professor of American studies at Michigan, who offers rich political and historical context for the debate. Contrasting views in favor of keeping the mascot are provided by football fans, many tailgating outside a game, none of whom are named, as well as by team owner Daniel Snyder, an unapologetic opponent to any change on the issue. Some references to explicitly racist outbursts, particularly some vulgar social media attacks on Blackhorse, may be difficult for younger or sensitive viewers. The film is narrated by Sicangu Lakota rapper Frank Waln.