On June 18, 2014, the Trademark Trial and Appeal Board ruled in Blackhorse v. Pro Football, Inc., that six federal registrations for trademarks that include the term “Redskins” must be cancelled because they are disparaging to Native Americans when used in relation to professional football services.
According to the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office, Pro Football, Inc., may appeal the decision to federal district court or to the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Federal Circuit. If the decision stands, Pro Football, Inc., will lose the legal benefits provided by federal registration of the trademarks. However, this decision does not require the Washington, D.C., professional football team to change its name or to stop using the “Redskins” trademarks.
Please click here to read the full decision and more facts on the case.
Posted: June 18, 2014
