The Seattle Seahawks, a National Football Team is scheduled to play the New England Patriots in this year’s much anticipated Super Bowl matchup. As many football fans might be aware, the Seahawks gained attention from everyone for winning last year’s Super Bowl, complimented by their stingy secondary defense. However, the Seahawks also gained attention from everyone in the media for another reason: dubbing their home fans as “the 12th man.”
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NFL Continues Challenge of “Disparaging” Marks in the Fourth Circuit
Are you ready for some football? In the midst of preparing for football season, the National Football Association (“NFL”) continues its fight to overcome cancellations of the Washington Redskins’ trademarks. The NFL is appealing a district court decision to the Fourth Circuit.
SCOTUS Will Decide Constitutionality of Ban on Disparaging Trademarks
Last Thursday, the Supreme Court announced it will hear Lee v. Tam, an appeal from a Federal Circuit decision that held Section 2(a) of the Lanham Act violates the First Amendment. The case involves a band that was denied registration for the mark “THE SLANTS” under Section 2(a) because the name may disparage individuals of Asian ancestry. This case may also effectively resolve the ongoing dispute involving the Washington Redskins trademarks.
The justices will hear arguments in Lee v. Tam early next year.