The Washington Redskins have been so-called since 1933, but if recent protesters get their way, they might not be for long.

‘Redskins’ can refer to Native Americans’ skin color, red face paint, or scalped heads. Those who oppose the name take it in the context of scalped heads, a reminder of the mistreatment of Native Americans by the United States.

“If it were to be another race and you were to use a derogatory term for that race and put a caricature of that race on the helmet like [the Redskins] are doing it would be a different story,” said senior Bobby Bartosh, who is part Native American. “[The name] should be more representative of the DC area.”

Common suggestions for a new name have included the Washington Red Hogs, Red Hawks, Senators, or Warriors.

Native American and minority-rights groups have been active in protesting the Redskins’ name, filing symbolic suits against and writing letters to Redskins owner Dan Snyder, trying to convince him to change the name. The most common form of activism, however, is protesting at games.

“During the [September 15] game I saw [protesting] on TV at Lambeau Field in Green Bay,” said senior Nikhil Subhankar.

Activist groups stand outside the stadium, holding signs denouncing ‘Redskins’ as the racist ‘R-word.’There are others, however, who believe the Redskins should keep their long-held name.

“We’ve been the Redskins for a long time…it’d be expensive for [Snyder] to get new merchandise. It’d be a hassle,” said Subhankar.

Besides the enormous expense and logistical nightmare of changing the name of the third-most valued NFL team, some think the Redskins should keep their name because it honors Native Americans.

“I understand [Native Americans] are offended but [the name] isn’t meant in a bad way…it’s honoring them,” said Subhankar.

Since the final decision to change the name lies with Snyder, the debate may be futile. Last May, ten Congress members sent a letter to Snyder asking him to change the name. In response, Snyder told USA Today Sports that he will never change it.

“[Snyder] himself said that as long as he’s alive they won’t change it,” said Subhankar.

Even with all the controversy surrounding the Redskins, fans still love them.

“RG3, he’s my man,” said Subhankar. “It’s my squad.”