Chumash Tribe drops casino sponsorship in NBA racism dustup


The Chumash Casino Resort has been a prominent sponsor of the LA Clippers.

The Santa Ynez Band of Chumash Indians in California has ended its relationship with the Los Angeles Clippers.

The Chumash Casino Resort has been a prominent sponsor of the NBA team. But Chairman Richard Armenta said the relationship had to end due to racist comments attributed to owner Donald Sterling.

"We’ve always been proud supporters of the Los Angeles Clippers, however, the recent statements attributed to the Clippers’ owner have forced us to reconsider our relationship," Armenta said in a statement. "We remain supportive of the members of the team and we wish them the very best going forward."

"As a group that has long been marginalized itself, the Santa Ynez Band of Chumash Indians and the Chumash Casino Resort are especially sensitive to maintaining the dignity of all people," Armenta continued. "We cannot ignore any statement that causes harm or hurts any group. As a result, we’re withdrawing our sponsorship of the Clippers organization.“

The tribe's decision came as a slew of other sponsors walked away from the team.

Get the Story:
Chumash withdraw LA Clippers sponsorship (The Lompoc Record 4/28)
Chumash Casino Yanks Sponsorship of LA Clippers (KEYT 4/28)
Chumash Tribe Pulls Sponsorship of L.A. Clippers Over Racist Remarks Attributed to Owner (Noozhawk 4/28)
Sponsors end Clippers sponsorship (EPSN 4/28)
Corporate Sponsors End Ties to the Clippers (Business Week 4/28)

Related Stories
NCAI slams racist comments attributed to owner of NBA team (4/28)

Join the Conversation