The Washington Redskins have been repeatedly criticized for their controversial name and logo. In recent years, the Native American community, politicians, and activists have taken many steps to prompt a name change, to no avail.

As the issue continues to gain steam, Penn State Law will host a conversation on “The Redskins Trademark and Appropriation of Native American Names and Images” that aims to discuss the many legal and non-legal implications surrounding the issue tonight at 5 p.m. in the Katz Auditorium. This hour-long event will host two speakers and conclude with a 20-minute question-and-answer session.

The first speaker will be Phillip Thompson, an attorney who specializes in Native American law and co-founder of the Native American Law and Economic Development Center. Thompson will cover the many cultural, economic, and historical perspectives surrounding the debate along with other similar instances of non-Native Americans using Native American themes and names for commercial gain. He will also give a brief history of the term “Redskins” and why it is considered derogatory.

Penn State Dickinson School of Law Assistant Professor Martin Skladany is the event’s second speaker. Skladany will speak on the legal aspects involving the Redskins controversy by providing a brief summary of trademark law in context. This will include an overview of recent cases and rulings regarding the NFL football team’s name and mascot.