Fans and business partners will be the most important voices in opposition to the Washington Redskins name if change is on the way.  That is the message from Paul Swangard, managing director of the Warsaw Sports Marketing Center, who was busy returning media calls following the announcement that six trademarks for the team are being revoked.

The New York Times sought Swangard’s perspective on what is expected to be a lengthy process before the brand identity issues are settled.

“I think the momentum for those who want to see the name changed is in the right direction,” said Paul Swangard, the managing director of the Warsaw Sports Marketing Center at the University of Oregon. But “unless the fans and business partners become vocal in their opposition, Snyder will continue to drag his heels.”

Swangard also spoke with USAToday, Los Angeles Times and KCBS Radio in San Francisco.