top of page

Edmonton CFL Football team changes name

Updated: Jul 23, 2020

July 22, 2020 9:56 am StettlerLocal.com

Photo by EE Football Club

After much back and forth conversation and controversy, the Edmonton CFL football team will officially drop the term “Eskimos” from their team name.


The change was announced Tuesday during a press conference with the club’s Board Chairperson Janice Agrios saying that the team will be referred to only as ‘EE Football Team’ and ‘Edmonton Football Team’ until a new name has been agreed upon.


The team’s former name has been a source of discontent in recent years. While some argue that the name was intended to represent the strength and resiliency of northern communities, others are concerned that it took this long for the team to take action.


“We feel it is important to make this change in response to the findings of our recent engagement and research. Going forward, we want the focus to be on the work we do in the community and our team’s excellence on the field as the CFL’s most successful franchise.” Janice Agrios, Chair of the Board of Directors.

Many companies are rebranding and changing product names to be more inclusive after receiving criticism for perpetuating harmful racial stereotypes. A notable example includes the Pepsi-owned Quaker Oats company announcing in June that they will be removing the image of Aunt Jemima from its packaging. Uncle Ben’s, owned by Mars, quickly followed suit saying it was time to evolve their visual brand identity.


It’s not known when the team will decide on a new name but the club has announced that they will undergo a complex consultation process that will include research and engagement with season seat holders, casual ticket purchasers and partners.


B Adair, Manager


Comments


bottom of page