The Most Important Super Bowl Ad You Didn't See

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redskinsAt roughly $4 million per 30-second slot, this ad never had a chance of making the airwaves during Super Bowl XLVIII. But you should watch it anyway.

Created by the National Congress of American Indians, the ad touches on the rich history of Native American communities. It mentions iconic figures like Sitting Bull, Hiawatha, Jim Thorpe, and Will Rogers. It highlights many aspects of Native American identity: Proud. Forgotten. Survivor. Mother. Father. Son. Daughter. Underserved. Struggling. Resilient.

"Native Americans call themselves many things," the narrator concludes. One thing they don't call themselves, however, is Redskin.

Yes, the Washington Redskins' mascot has been around for more than 80 years. Yes, it would be costly to change it. (After all, the NFL is just your everyday 501(c) nonprofit, right?) No, Washington's football team isn't the only one with a controversial Indian mascot that needs changing.

But these are diversions. Excuses.

TVNL Comment: This video can also be seen on our main news page, in the Latest Videos section.

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