As a lifelong fan living in Ohio and particularly proud of my Cherokee heritage, lately I feel disconcerted by the decision to change the name of our very own American League baseball team from the Cleveland Indians to the Cleveland Guardians. I truly believe that there is nothing disrespectful or unacceptable about the original team name. Furthermore, teams like Washington Redskins continue to exist, leaving me bewildered as to why the Cleveland Indians cannot proceed in the same vein.

It is imperative to acknowledge that sports teams are major reflections of cultural heritage and local identity. They tie generations together and in many ways, set the tradition and vibrancy of the locale they represent. From a historical point of view, the name Cleveland Indians carries with it decades of local pride, team accomplishments, iconic moments, and shared memories.

Our request is not an isolated one. Many Ohioans and nationwide baseball fans resonate with our sentiment. A Morning Consult poll showed that 49% of self-proclaimed baseball fans supported keeping the original name (Morning Consult, 2021).

We call on the decision-makers within the American League and the Cleveland Guardians management to reconsider this change. Reinstate the original team name, the Cleveland Indians, that holds so much significance to us. Uphold our improvised traditions, our history, and identity. Be considerate of the fans who stand with the team - in victories and losses, and who identify with the original team name. Please, stand by your loyal supporters; listen to our voices and honor our request. Sign this petition to support the reinstatement of our beloved Cleveland Indians.