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Report: Braves discussing Tomahawk Chop, won't change team name

Pouya Dianat/Atlanta Braves / Getty Images Sport / Getty

The Atlanta Braves are engaged in ongoing discussions regarding the use of the Tomahawk Chop, sources told Ken Rosenthal of The Athletic.

Atlanta is not currently considering changing the Braves moniker, Rosenthal adds, which was kept during the franchise's relocation from Milwaukee.

The news comes while the Cleveland Indians and Washington Redskins both consider name and logo changes due to the racist depictions of Native Americans.

The Tomahawk Chop is a fan celebration that involves chanting while swinging your arm like an ax. The Braves also sell foam tomahawks to encourage fan participation. The action is believed to have originated at Florida State in the 1980s. The Seminoles and Kansas City Chiefs also use it.

On Friday, the Braves issued a statement to media members, saying the team "honors, supports, and values the Native American community," according to The Associated Press.

"We have also held meetings with our Native American Working Group, which will collaborate with us on cultural issues, education, and community outreach to amplify their voices and show our fans they are still proudly here," the statement continues. "The Atlanta Braves have a meaningful commitment to honor the Native American community, and we are excited about working together to ensure this happens."

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