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Deadspin Accused of False Racism Claim Against Native American Chiefs Fan

The young fan, of Native American descent, was accused of blackface for wearing team colors, leading to widespread criticism of Deadspin and the writer.

  • Deadspin writer Carron Phillips accused a young Kansas City Chiefs fan, Holden Armenta, of racism for wearing black and red face paint and a Native American headdress at a game. The initial photo only showed the black-painted side of his face, leading to the accusation of blackface.
  • Holden Armenta is actually of Native American descent himself, with his grandfather sitting on the board of the Santa Ynez Band of Chumash Indians.
  • The boy's father, Bubba Armenta, has stated that it is 'a little too late' for an apology from Phillips, as the damage has already been done.
  • The Santa Ynez Band of Chumash Indians issued a statement saying that the decisions made by individuals or families in their community are their own and may not reflect the views of the broader tribal community.
  • Despite the controversy, the article accusing Armenta of racism is still online on Deadspin's website.
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