Give name up because it’s right
The Crusaders’ branding has always been naı¨ve, and now it should be swiftly and decisively changed. The franchise defends it as ‘‘a reflection of the crusading spirit of this community’’. That is only part of the story, as the historical association was obviously intentional – to enable the use of some cool-looking knights. However, you can’t pick and choose from history like that, and there was always blood on those swords if you were prepared to look closely enough to see it. The brand is also at the unavoidable and significant risk of being hijacked by fascist and racist extremists worldwide, who have never been as naı¨ve as us about symbols and their power. The solidarity now expressed with the Muslim community will be lip service if it does not entail being able to give up something we may love because it is right to do so.
Scott Holdaway, Somerfield
Change the name
Much as we may wish the name of our most successful rugby club to stand only for peace, unity, inclusiveness and community spirit, people dressed up as the Crusaders of the historical conflict between Muslims and Christians riding around the stadium on horseback wielding swords before the start of a game is not going to do much to support that idea. It is incumbent on us to do all we can as a community to reassure those of Muslim faith living among us following the horrific events of last Friday. Change the name. Jennifer Beyrer, Bryndwr
Alternatives
As an avid supporter of the Crusaders, I applaud their consideration of a name change. The name has certainly been a powerful brand, but this is exactly the reason we should be wary of allowing the insidious power of advertising to seep perverse messages into our collective subconscious. May I join in offering alternatives? ‘The Reformers’ suggests a certain sense of superiority, discipline and their hallmark of innovation. ’The Jets’ is snappy. How about, reflecting their current record, ‘The Gamekeepers’? Maybe ‘The Infernos’ - plenty of red and black there!
Please do something that respects not only the huge reputation of our team, but also all members of our community. Martin London, Christchurch Central
Illogical
To change the Crusaders’ name because of its Christian connotations is absurd and illogical. Using this flawed logic would mean that the name of our city, Christ-Church, and suburbs St Albans, St Andrews and St Martins would have to change also.
The PC brigade are having a field day. Next it will be all Christian churches and schools named after saints and why stop there – St Arnaud, St Andrews and St Bathans will be on their list also.
MP Harnett, Tai Tapu
No publicity
It’s vitally important the mosque massacre suspect is deprived of the oxygen of publicity at his trial. In declining name suppression, and from his demeanor at his court appearance, it’s clear he intends to bask in the worldwide media spotlight.
Don’t let his trial turn into a world-wide version of how Clayton Weatherston used local media for his own narcissistic aggrandisement at his murder trial, a decade ago.
Restrict media (especially television) coverage of his diatribes and antics as Norway did with Anders Breivik. Report the facts of the case but don’t afford him a soapbox to recruit others.
Lyall Macfarlane, Templeton
Communication
A placard attached to the Botanic Gardens fence drew my attention as I walked the heartrending, searing and uplifting path of tributes along Rolleston Ave on Sunday night. Its first short comment was about love. The second said: ‘‘We will win this fight’’.
I believe something we can do in this time of surreal grief, confusion and helplessness is become aware how often we use words that infer conflict – an ‘us and them’ mentality – words such as ‘fight’ and ‘battle’. Let’s make the effort to change the vocabulary and come up with alternatives where we can. It’s called non-violent communication.
Judith Paviell, Cashmere