Daines hails Commanders commitment to honor Wetzel legacy
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News from the office of Senator Daines
U.S. SENATE — On Nov. 19, U.S. Senator Steve Daines issued the following statement after the Washington Commanders and Ryan Wetzel agreed on a path forward for honoring the iconic Native American logo that the franchise proudly wore for nearly 50 years. That logo was inspired by Blackie Wetzel in 1971 (Ryan’s grandfather) and modeled after historic Blackfeet tribal leaders, most prominently Chief Two Guns White Calf. The team has also committed to never again censor the logo on merchandise that commemorates former players. With these agreements, Daines voted in support of the D.C. Robert F. Kennedy Memorial Stadium Campus Revitalization Act today in the Senate Energy and Natural Resources (ENR) Committee.
“Three years ago this week Don Wetzel came to my office to share with me his father’s legacy and the history behind the famous Washington logo. He had a vision to use the proud symbol to benefit his people. This morning, I spoke to his son, Ryan Wetzel, about the ongoing negotiations and the progress that has been made…
“I am proud to say, after speaking with my constituents, that they are satisfied with the ongoing negotiations with the team and feel optimistic about the direction that they are heading. Therefore, I will support the bill and vote in favor of its passage out of committee with the condition that the team follows through on the commitments made to the family.
“I urge the team to continue their dialogue and reach a conclusion that honors their past, honors Don Wetzel’s vision to use the logo to help Indian Country and honors the will of the Blackfeet Tribe to restore the logo to place of honor and prominence,” Daines said.
