The Cleveland Indians are moving forward in the process to examine and possibly change the team name and will be meeting with Native American leaders to help determine the best path forward.
Indians owner Paul Dolan announced Thursday that as part of the organization's continuous efforts to discuss the team name, there have been productive meetings earlier this week with manager Terry Francona and numerous players to discuss the name, as well as social justice and racial equality issues.
To continue examining the best path forward, the organization said it will be engaging with Native American leaders to “better understand their perspectives,” in regards to the team name.
The organization will also hold discussions with civic leaders and said it will continue to listen to the opinions and perspectives of players, fans, partners and employees.
“We feel a real sense of urgency to discuss these perspectives with key stakeholders while also taking the time needed to ensure those conversations are inclusive and meaningful,” Dolan said. “We will continue to share periodic updates as we make progress. In the meantime, we are excited for our team to return to the field to continue our pursuit of a World Series Championship.”
Dolan said that the organization appreciates the “passionate response” it has received over the last few weeks since announcing it would be discussing a possible name change.
