Potential name change for Crusaders is necessary - New Zealand’s Minister for Sports

New Zealand’s Minister for Sports Grant Robertson says that conversations around a potential name change for the Crusaders is necessary, in the wake of last week's Christchurch mosque attacks.

After a gunman opened fire on two separate Christchurch mosques, leaving 50 dead and dozens injured, Crusaders chief executive Colin Mansbridge says that the organisation are listening to feedback over a change of name for one of New Zealand's most decorated sporting sides.

Crusaders Super Rugby Team

A reference to the medieval Crusades from Christians against Muslims between 1095 and 1492, the name 'Crusaders' could be taken as highly offensive and inappropriate to a community reeling from such a devastating attack, it has been suggested.

Robertson says he is aware of the conversations that they are now having with ‑ in particular ‑ the Muslim community in Christchurch

The name 'Crusaders' could be taken as highly offensive and inappropriate to a community reeling from such a devastating attack, it has been suggested

Meanwhile, the Crusaders will play the Waratahs at 8.45pm Saturday in Super Rugby.

[Source: TV NZ]

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