Redskins' Dan Snyder Announces Creation of Foundation to Help Native Americans

[JoeRedskin]

Originally Posted by Dirtbag59

...However at the same time I understand that while it may be a minority of people that are offended by the name you have to at least respect and understand that.

Even if its as small as 10% the fact of the matter is that a key principle in this countries is at the very least respecting and hearing out the views of a minority opinion. Now if its hogwash like refusing to give your diabetic kid insulin because of certain religious beliefs then obviously its fair to quickly disregard that but in the case of something less tangible like the Redskins name I guess we've had a good run at least avoiding this discussion. ...

The problem, of course, is twofold:

(1) The mere fact that you hold, and others share, an opinion does not mean it is reasonable. Further, unreasonable opinions may be entitled to a respectful "hearing" if presented in a civil manner, but the opinion itself is not due any "respect" - if by respect you mean some level of acceptance.

(2) Many people holding minority opinions seem to believe that they are only heard or respected if their opinions are accepted and acted upon by the majority.

By every poll taken, the vast majority of the Native American community does not take issue with Skins name. Those who do have been heard. Respectfully so. The minority is not, however, now entitled to have their opinions accepted or acted upon out of "respect".


"I have heard what you said and understand the basis for your opinion. Nonetheless, I disagree with it and, with all due respect to you as a person, I believe that (1)your opinion that cannibalism should be an acceptable societal norm is idiotic and barbaric and (2) you are wrong for holding that opinion. Further, the majority of people have the same opinion as I do and we will punish you if you try to eat any one.

The Native American who object have been heard, their arguments understood but simply not accepted by the majority of NA people, much less by the majority of non-NA people. Nothing more is required. Thank you. Period.