Thousands protest Redskins name in Minnesota before game Sunday

Thousands of people protested the Washington Redskins name and mascot before Sunday's game against the Vikings at TCF Bank Stadium in Minnesota.

Thousands of people protested the Washington Redskins name and mascot before Sunday's game against the Vikings at TCF Bank Stadium in Minnesota, according to the Minneapolis Star-Tribune. 

The protest was organized by the National Coalition Against Racism in Sports and Media, in cooperation with the University of Minnesota and Minneapolis police. 

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According to the Star-Tribune, police said there were an estimated 3,200 people participating, many who came from outside states. The march began at the University of Minnesota's Northrop Plaza for Native American prayers and then headed to the stadium at 10 a.m. for a rally and to hear speakers. 

Expected speakers included Indian reservation leaders, Minneapolis mayor Betsy Hodges, comedian and social activist Dick Gregory and former Vikings star Joey Browner. Hodges led the crowd in a "Change the Name" chant, reports the Star-Tribune.

"I have a message to the Washington team: The clock is ticking on your name … it is more than an insult. It’s hate," said Hodges. 

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Opposition to "Redskins" has grown over the past year, with critics labeling it an offensive and racist nickname. Redskins owner Dan Snyder and other team officials have remained adamant that they won't change the name, citing history and support for the name among Native Americans.

AIM founder Clyde Bellecourt tells thousands of #Redskins name protesters, "My heart flies like an eagle today." pic.twitter.com/Sres6yAF5A

— Timothy Blotz (@TimBlotzFOX9) November 2, 2014

This anti-#Redskins protest is bigger than I expected. pic.twitter.com/Y7dDjGkEHM

— Tom Pelissero (@TomPelissero) November 2, 2014

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- Molly Geary