Long before #TakeAKnee protests, the movement against Native American mascots, derogatory team naming and cultural appropriation in sports proved a catalyst for discussion and debate about race and democracy in American culture. “More Than a Word” offers an inside look at these contentious issues through the campaign and legal cases against the Washington R*skins, and traces how racist terminology became embraced and beloved by sports teams and fans.

Join us for a screening and discussion that will explore the personal and social costs of America’s history of misappropriating cultural identities for the purposes of entertainment.

Panelists:

• Amanda Blackhorse, LCSW (Diné), Social Worker, Lead Plaintiff in Blackhorse et al vs. Pro-Football Inc, and Founder of Arizona to Rally Native American Mascots
• Jacob Meders, MFA (Mechoopda), Master Printmaker and Assistant Professor, New College, ASU
• James Riding In, PhD (Pawnee), Interim Director and Associate Professor, American Indian Studies, ASU

About the Film:

"More Than A Word" analyzes the Washington football team and their use of the derogatory term R*dskins. Using interviews from both those in favor of changing the name and those against, "More Than A Word" presents a deeper analysis of the many issues surrounding the Washington team name. The documentary also examines the history of Native American cultural appropriation. To learn more about the film, visit http://morethanawordfilm.com/.

For more information and questions: Contact the Center for the Study of Race and Democracy at csrd@asu.edu or by telephone at 602-496-1376.