Native American Guardian's Association v. Washington Commanders et al
This lawsuit involves the Native American Guardians Association (NAGA) suing an individual named Laux and the Washington Commanders for defamation. NAGA argues that Laux, a representative of the Commanders, made false statements that portrayed NAGA and its members as fake Native Americans. The statements were published to a third party and caused NAGA and its members to be shunned or avoided. NAGA alleges that the statements were written defamation and also constituted slander. They claim that the reputation of NAGA has been irreparably harmed, and their ability to educate the public about Native American history has been undermined. NAGA is seeking damages for defamation. The plaintiffs in this lawsuit are accusing the defendants of libel, slander, civil conspiracy, and conspiracy to violate civil rights. They allege that the defendants, including the Washington Commanders, Harris, and the National Congress of American Indians (NCAI), conspired to defame the Native American Gaming Association (NAGA) by issuing press releases that concealed defamatory statements made by the defendants. The plaintiffs argue that this conspiracy has deprived NAGA and its members of their property rights and equal protection under the law. As relief, the plaintiffs seek monetary damages totaling $1.6 million. The attorney who filed the lawsuit certifies that the complaint is not presented for an improper purpose and complies with all legal requirements.
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