Blackhawks ban headdresses at home

The Chicago Blackhawks said Wednesday they are banning headdresses at home games as part of their pledge to honor the Native American community.

The move comes after conversations with Native American partners to establish new policies and initiatives. While the team will play the remainder of its games this season in an empty arena in Edmonton, Alberta, the no-headdresses policy begins as soon as fans are allowed back in the United Center. The team will continue to use the

Blackhawks name because it honors a Native American leader who has been an inspiration to generations. The moniker was chosen in 1926 for the World War I military Blackhawk Division, which was named after Sauk nation leader Black Hawk.

The national conversation on race and racism has increased pressure on pro sports teams to reconsider Native American names, mascots, logos and imagery. Washington’s NFL team dropped the name Redskins, and Major League Baseball’s Cleveland Indians are considering a similar move.

“We recognize there is a fine line between respect and disrespect, and we commend other teams for their willingness to engage in that conversation,” Blackhawks officials said.

Capitals

After 140 days without playing a game, Washington beat Carolina, 3-2, in an exhibition in Toronto. Despite the lengthy layoff due to the COVID-19 pandemic, Alex Ovechkin, the Capitals’ superstar left winger, seemed to be in midseason form, notching two goals and an assist in the win.