The Original Americans Foundation logo is prominently displayed on the website of the Indian National Finals Rodeo.
The Cherokee Nation of Oklahoma was a sponsor of the Indian National Finals Rodeo but tried to get its money back after learning that the event's primary backer was the Original Americans Foundation. The tribe's seal prominently appears near the top of the INFR's sponsor page. But it also appeared on other pages just below a logo for the Washington NFL team's controversial foundation. "To see the seal of the Cherokee Nation right below the logo really hurt," Jennie Stockle of Eradicating Offensive Native Mascotry told Deadspin. The tribe sponsored the rodeo because many of its citizens participated, Chief Bill John Baker said. But had he known of the link to the team, he said that wouldn't have happened. "We'll ask next year," Baker told Deadspin. NFL team owner Dan Snyder announced the Original Americans Foundation earlier this year and said it would provide financial and other assistance to Indian Country. However, the organization has not publicly announced a leadership board, policies, guidelines, funding source or other criteria typical of most reputable charities. The foundation is headed by Gary Edwards, who says he is Cherokee. Get the Story:
Cherokee Chief Apologizes For Dan Snyder Alliance (Deadspin 12/1)
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