The headlines of Fox Business Flash are here. See what clicks on FoxBusiness.com.
Just weeks before the launch of the brand new Jeep Grand Cherokee SUV, the chief executive of the Cherokee Nation said: ‘it’s time’ for the carmaker to retire.
Chief Chuck Hoskin, jr., Told Car and Driver, “I’m sure it comes from a well-intentioned place, but it does not honor us by having our name plastered on the side of a car.”
Brand new 2021 Jeep® Grand Cherokee L Summit Reserve outside Grand Cherokee badge.
“The best way to honor us is to learn about our sovereign government, our role in this country, our history, culture and language and to engage in a meaningful dialogue with federally recognized tribes about cultural applicability.”
Hoskin’s statements were in response to a news agency query and are the first time a Cherokee Nation official has put an end to the use of Jeep, which also appears on the smaller Cherokee.
“I think we are in a day and time in this country where it is time for both corporations and team sports to stop using Native American names, images and good luck charms from their products, team jerseys and sports in general, said Chief Hoskin.
Jeep started using the Cherokee name on vehicles in 1974 and added the Grand Cheroke in 1993, which was its top-selling model last year.
GET FOX BUSINESS ON THE GO by clicking here
“Our vehicle names have been carefully selected and cherished over the years to honor and celebrate Native American people for their nobility, ability and pride. We are more than ever committed to a respectful and open dialogue with Cherokee Nation Chief Chuck Hoskin, Jr., ”Jeep said in a statement to FOX Business.
A Cherokee Nation official confirmed to Car and Driver that a Jeep representative spoke to Hoskin earlier in February, but the carmaker did not plan to change the names of the models.