CLEVELAND — What once seemed impossible is now a reality, as the Cleveland Indians have confirmed they will change their nickname.
The club has boasted the moniker since 1915, and according to the Associated Press will do so for at least another year. After several conversations with Native American leaders, the team decided it was best to move on.
"We believe our organization is at its best when we can unify our community and bring people together – and we believe a new name will allow us to do this more fully," the organization said in a statement.
Many have decried the name "Indians" as racist, but as is natural for any sports team identity (especially one that's been around for more than a century), there is an attachment that is hard to let go of. Not surprisingly, both of those sentiments were on full display when the story first broke.
Fan opinion on social media is sharply divided, with some applauding what they see as a welcome change while others express anger at the franchise for "giving in." President Donald Trump even tweeted his thoughts on the matter, blasting the move as an example of "cancel culture."
3News also asked people what they thought the new name should be. So far, "Spiders" leads the pack.
Here are some more reactions from our viewers and others: