Blog #119 – Indian mascots – insult, honor, or something else?
In the February 2012 article, “Insult or Honor?”, the author examines reasons surrounding the controversy of using Indian names and tribes as mascots for athletic teams. But first, a little history:
The Boston Red Stockings changed their team name to the Boston Braves in 1912 (which would then move to Atlanta to play baseball there), and the Cleveland baseball team changed their mascot name to the Indians in 1914, purportedly because one of their players was a Native American. College teams had had Indian mascots for decades, but Stanford University became one of the first universities to change their name voluntarily in 1972 from the Indians to the Cardinal. In the 1990s, the NCAA ordered all teams with Indian mascots to change their nicknames and logos unless the university got permission from the tribe associated with that school. Only a few schools were able to keep their mascots: Florida State, University of Illinois, University of Utah were a few. In 2005, the NCAA put 19 colleges on notice that their names were “hostile or abusive” to Native Americans, and apparently all of the schools have changed except for Alcorn State University in Mississippi. The high school mentioned in the article, Mukwonago, was ordered by the Wisconsin legislature to change its name (Warriors) to something else. The case ended up in court, and the state courts allowed the school to keep its mascot and nickname in 2015, but they haven’t decided to change it back to the Warriors.
Arguments for keeping the Indian mascots include tradition and honor to those tribes involved. Another argument for keeping the mascots revolve around financial means. Those schools affected would need to buy all new sports uniforms, change gym floors and paint over murals at stadiums and gyms. The article estimated that there are 6,500 schools of all levels that use an Indian mascot. As for pro teams like the Washington R____, Atlanta Braves, Kansas City Chiefs, Chicago Blackhawks, and Cleveland Indians, they have argued that it would be too expensive to change their gear. The Cleveland baseball team recently dropped its Chief Wahoo mascot and now just goes with a bright red C.
The primary arguments against using Indian mascots and names primarily rest with the thought that these are insults to Native peoples and engage in harmful and hurtful stereotypes. Chief Wahoo can be found at the Ferris State Jim Crow Museum of Racist Memorabilia because it represents the “Red Sambo” character in Jim Crow iconography. Stereotypes like this have been used to justify racist behavior and discriminatory laws. An additional argument can be that when white fans of these teams dress as Indians, they are appropriating the Indian culture and making a mockery of it (kinda like when people dress like hippies for 60s day during Spirit Week). The most egregious / extreme use of the Indian nickname that causes hurt is the NFL franchise found in Washington D.C. In 2013, the owner of the team, Daniel Snyder, has said, “We’ll never change the name. … It’s that simple. NEVER—you can use caps.” In 2014, 50 U.S. Senators (48 Democrats and 2 independents) sent a letter to NFL Commissioner, Roger Goddell, asking that the NFL not support racism and bigotry. Supposedly, the name was chosen in 1933 to honor all Native Americans. However, if this were done with any other group of people, including whites (The Detroit Blacks, for instance, or the Pittsburgh Whites – all made up names), many people might have an issue with that. However, in a 2017 case that went before the U.S. Supreme Court, a band known as the Slants (made up of Asian Americans) won a case against the U.S. trademark office because by the government refusing a trademark for the Slants, that would be a violation of their free speech. Snyder sees this victory for free speech as a victory for his team since the Trademark Office had recently voted to cancel his team’s trademark in 2014.
Here’s a commercial put together by the National Congress of American Indians about the mascot issue:
So what’s your position on the use of Native American nicknames as mascots for schools and college and pro sports teams? Do these names show what the predominantly white attendees say they do – courage, spirit, honor, and respect? Should a school get the local tribe’s permission in order to use its tribal name (like the University of North Dakota or Eastern Michigan and Central Michigan)? Or is it time to retire these relics of a racist past to the trash bin of history?
Your answer is due Tuesday (4/23) by class. 300 words total.
A video from Fox News debating the issue below:
I don’t think Native American mascots should be used in schools unless schools are giving them some type of reparations and they’ve been given permission. The crimes against natives in this country is heavy and using their names without compensating them is awful. In terms of if I think the mascots are being used for the purpose they were claimed to be, no I don’t. The mascots are not being honored, respected and whatever other crap the schools say they are for. They thought the name sounded cool so they used it. I definitely think the schools should get the native tribe’s okay before they proceed to use their name for something like a mascots. The schools use the name without the tribe’s permission then lie in order to keep it. If the school wants to use the name then they should be paying some type of reparation to said tribe as well as get the tribes permission. I also see the merit in retiring the mascot names completely the natives had their land and homes taken from them by Americans. They lost most of their population due to being massacred by Americans if they’re outraged by these names it’s justified and schools should be forced to give it up. I think for Americans even to give crap answers like the mascot is somehow being honored by the school is stupid and disrespectful, it’s a mascot, it would be easy to change. The University of North Dakota, Central, and Eastern Michigan University all have the right idea and more schools should follow their example and get the respective tribes permission or drop it entirely. All in all I believe we need to take the native peoples suffering more seriously and have more outreach for them and the problems plaguing their communities.
Teams should be allowed to be named after Native Americans, as it can benefit the tribes in a large way. For example, Florida State have permission to use the name “Seminoles” and Chief Osceola mascot, and in return many people from the tribes can be granted scholarships to their school. Often times it isn’t offensive to the members. James Billie, the Seminole Tribe chairman, says “”We Seminoles embrace the mascot.” Another group in North Dakota, The Spirit Lake Tribe, sued the NCAA to keep the University of North Dakota’s Fighting Sioux. Though many people find the sports teams offensive, if Native Americans approve of it, then we should as well. If a name is offensive to a tribe, then the former mascot should be replaced with something appropriate. The problem in this issue lies in the fact that often times people “white-knight,” or white Americans speak on this topic over actual Native-American voices to further their own agenda. The sole decision of mascots should lie with Native Americans, because they are the ones actually affected by the misuse of tribal symbols and slurs as their mascots.
Personally, I see no harm or disrespect in the usage of Native American nicknames for mascots of professional sports teams and high schools, however, the decision is not up to me. Since many Native Americans have come forward and shared their disliking and disapproval of the gesture, it needs to end. We need to respect everybody’s view on the issue and respect the people behind the name. I believe that the decision should be solely focused on the Native Americans opinions considering it is their name and legacy. I understand that these names have been around for decades and hold many fond memories and traditions, yet we need to listen to what everybody has to say about this dilemma. Shutting out the opinions of the Indians is very disrespectful and should, therefore, result in nobody being able to keep the Native American names. Additionally, though there hasn’t been any obvious disrespect or harm to the Native American name, the Indians feel attacked. WIth a very harsh, sad history for the Native American, through years of being ignored and disrespected by America, Native Americans are very sensitive to their past. As Americans, we need to be respectful and honor their wishes to discard the name altogether. It is their name that schools would like to use, and although they want to use them in a dedicating manner, we need to understand that it is the Indians choice. We need to stay united as a nation and celebrate the diverse views and opinions everybody has. The Native Americans were put on reservations, lost land due to unfulfilled promises, and suffered countrywide disrespect for decades. We need to take one right step in the right direction of accepting all cultures and religions and commemorate the Native American’s outlook. All people need to live up to our ability to have freedom of speech and enable everybody to share their voice. Indians have been silenced their entire lives, we need to let them speak out at least once and share their stories. People need to stop being so critical and selfish and regard all views and opinions on this topic, especially the people behind the name.
I believe that high school, college, and professional sports teams should be required to change their Native American mascot or logo if its deemed offensive by a native tribe. The NCAA (National Collegiate Athletic Association) identified 19 universities whose mascots/logos were presented as “hostile” or “abusive” towards Native Americans. Obviously, if the NCAA, a very public and credible organization, finds 19 universities whose mascots/logos seem to be offensive, an issue is evident. Native American people have been tossed around and treated with an extensive amount of disrespect in our country. Teams of any nature shouldn’t further the disrespect toward Native culture by calling themselves anything that has to do with native people. For example, the Washington Redskins. In the video, a Native speaker lists off various traits and names Native people possess and go by. Not one of the several names listed was Redskin. The team shaped their organization around a falsified or made up term for a Native American. Not only has the “Change The Mascot” movement taking America by storm, but half of the United States Senate has pressured the National Football League to officially call on the Redskins to change its name. This goes to show that the notion of changing the mascot/logo is not just fueled by Native People, but by some of the most powerful and educated people in the United States. It’s time to retire these relics of a racist past to the trash bin of history for good. As American people, we should be celebrating the Native Americans for what our country has put them through, not diminishing their identity with hostile and rude personas. It’s evident that now is a better time than ever for teams of any kind to make the respectful decision to do away with mascots/logos that are offensive to Native tribes and people.
The usage of Indian mascots and names by sports teams has been an ongoing debate for a long time. Many white athletes claim that Indians have no right deciding and complaining about the usage of Indian mascots because those Indians names are an essential part of the team’s history and identity. On the other hand, many Indians declare that using Native American names is offensive and condescending. I believe that those names should not be changed because they are also important to athletic teams and because they are actually helpful to the acceptance and knowledge of the Native American people.
First, those Indian names have been a part of several team’s histories for over 200 years, and are also important to them. As said in the Insult or Honor article, many teams say their Indian names are a vital part of their tradition and identity, and about 900 teams across the U.S. still sport Native American names. Indians should respect the fact that those words, phrases, and characters are now also valuable to others because times are changing. Instead of grieving, they should be pleased that their culture is more widely known.
Next, many of the teams truly revere and honor their Indian Mascot. For example, Florida State University shows its chief Osceola mascot as a symbol of victory and success to the world. As said in the article, its popular Chief Osceola mascot rides triumphantly onto the field on a spotted Appaloosa horse before every home football game in Tallahassee. Portraying the Native Americans in such good light makes them popular and more commonly known about among the American people.
In conclusion, as said in the article, the controversy surrounding the Redskins is the latest in a decades-long debate over American Indian sports mascot. Though the athletic teams indeed have good explanations and reasons for why they should be allowed to keep their Indian names, respecting the Native Americans who have been severely hurt by the uses of their names is the mature and right thing to do.
I believe that Native Americans should not be used as mascots without explicit consent from leaders of local tribes. I don’t believe that predominantly white universities really stand for what they say they do, I believe that this issue, for them, is about preserving tradition, no matter how many people it might offend. Colleges especially like to keep, with things like sororities and fraternities at the core of some colleges. Things like this have been happening for centuries, people taking things that they like from other cultures and pretending they’re trying to be respectful of those people, but end up offending a great amount of them. In the case of what Native Americans think about this, there is information in both videos, that have contradicting facts. For example, there was a statistic in the second video from fox where they said 90 percent of Native Americans don’t find the name and mascot offensive. When you watch the first video, there is a lot of live footage of real Natives, most of which who most likely support the change of the redskins into something else, because they had to have agreed to being on that video, which was 100 percent against the redskins. I also have to think that the statistics might not be all that accurate in the Fox news video, because those studies were done by the college which was getting hate, which makes it kind of suspicious that the outcome was so much in their favor. I’m not accusing the redskins of making the poll results in their favor, I just think there needs to be more discussion about who was involved in the poll. Another problem I have with these racist names is that if colleges now would want to name their teams something like the “redskins”, it wouldn’t be allowed. So why is it that they won’t change the name now, but they wouldn’t allow a new team to have a similar slur-like name. This goes back to my argument about traditions in college.
I think that all school, college, and professional sports teams which still have mascots or logos that use Native American nicknames should be required to change. For one thing, many of these teams don’t have any connection to the tribe. Particularly in school and colleges, just because they may have at one point been in some correlation to the tribe in history, does not mean the predominantly white student population still does. To use a vital piece of a group’s culture, and make it into a caricature is disrespectful. On top of that, even if they are showing respect, such as the schools that conduct ceremonies to honor the tribe prior to sports events, it still isn’t the same level of importance that would be placed upon a ceremony actually for the tribe. Native American tribes have been disenfranchised repeatedly through history and in fact still are in many ways. This is shown through the rates of unemployment, mental health issues, and poverty levels on many reservations, and even the simple fact that these tribes are forced to live on reservations instead of their original land. Although some schools have been given approval from the tribe themselves, I think this can still be mildly questionable. Just because the current members of this tribe are accepting, that doesn’t mean that every member of the tribe feels that way and to generalize that is dishonorable to them also. Overall I think that any group of people that is not Native American cannot claim a symbol to represent themselves that is not their own. For a team to use one of these symbols, and then ultimately benefit financially from it doesn’t seem like respect to me. The horror that was inflicted upon Native Americans throughout America’s history is not something that can be glossed over or forgotten about, in my opinion, claiming pieces of their culture is not an honor and is instead throwing the hundreds of years of hurt given, back at them once again.
I do not think that schools should use Native American mascots unless they have permission from these tribes to use them. If a name is chosen to respect the Native’s cultures and ideals then it would not be an issue. However, if the only reason for the school not changing their mascot is because of cost then they have wrong reasoning and bad meaning behind their mascot. I do not think that these schools have these mascots for the purposes they claim. I think that these names were originally picked because of their sound. An example of this would be the warriors. This name in not disrespecting a tribe but has a nice ring and has the meaning a sports team wants, that they will fight and will not give up. However, it is hard to say the significance for the teams such as the Chicago Blackhawks or the mascot Chief Wahoo for the choosing these names. Although I would say they were probably not for courage and honor as claimed. I believe that the schools should have to get permission for their local tribes in order to use them as their mascot. Since the schools would be representing them they could even find ways for the tribes to benefit from it. However, if a tribe were to see a school’s mascot as offensive then that school should not have the right to continue to have that mascot even if it would “cost a lot of money” to change. The University of North Dakota, Eastern Michigan, and Central Michigan all set a great example for other schools by asking permission. I do not think that it is time to completely get rid of these relics as they still shine light on our history and the new founded freedom that has come from all the pain, struggles, and hardships. As schools should require permission for the use of their mascots, people should remember the past and make way for a better future respecting and honoring these tribes, as well as helping with their needs.
Our country has an inherently racist past that can still be seen in some parts of culture that hasn’t adapted to the times, however, these are a part of the past and could change to honor those people. Overall I believe that the local tribe should have the power to dictate whether or not they are allowed to use a symbol representing their people simply because it’s their right to change these incorrect portrayals of their race. I think that, depending on the situation, they could either stay or change if the symbol or culture is too racist. Although there is no intention of them being racist they could still be taken the wrong way and ruin the name of honorable tribes or people. I also think just dumping all the history of these names would be denying it had ever happened, whilst also stripping a school of their name. Most schools or pro teams are unwilling to change because their name and identity have been like that for decades, but in the modern time teams like the Redskins or the Seminoles could be seen as offensive. Facing an entire industry as a group of people is an extreme struggle, which is why this needs to be drawn to attention to many people to help and support these groups who are insulted at how this hate from the past still survived up until now. According to the second video, a study shows that around 90% don’t actually care about these symbols that were insulting their culture many years ago. I think they realized that they have no intention of hurting anyone nowadays and are in fact honored that they had some influence, whether good or bad, in the making of these mascots and names.
I believe high school, college, and professional sports teams should be able to use Native American nicknames as long as the certain tribe asks them not to. I think that the people that created these names for these teams probably weren’t trying to offend or mock any tribes. To a certain extent, I do believe these names represent honor, spirit, courage, and respect to the Indians because it honors their name in a very public way. Nowadays, many Native American tribes are neglected in society. But when their name is attached to something all different types of people enjoy, it brings more awareness to the public. I don’t think schools should need permission to use an Indian name. Although, if that particular tribe asks them to retire their name and use a different mascot, that school should respect their wishes. In addition, I agree with Ben Shapiro (in the video) that the government should be providing the Native Americans with other types of aid instead of focusing on the names of sports teams- especially since a poll of Native Americans from 2004 shows that approximately 90% of them didn’t mind the use of Native American mascots in sports teams. I also think that it would cause turmoil with many of these teams because I think a lot of them would be very reluctant to actually change them. With any sports team, both the fans and players find a strong sense of identity and pride with their team name. Therefore, it would be hard for these teams to abandon names they’ve had for so long. Instead of focusing on a problem that the majority of Native Americans have no opinion over, I believe the government should be helping more Native American kids finish high school, donating to their lands, and help them receive more representation in the government.
Personally I don’t believe that using the a Native American name an insult but if a tribe says they don’t approve of a team or school using them as a mascot than they should immediately change it. As long as the tribe approves of the school or team using them as a mascot than there shouldn’t be a fight about keeping the mascot they should just change it. It is appalling to see teams fighting for a mascot that doesn’t belong to them, going out of their way being hostile to the tribes that are disapproving of them using their name. The University of Dakota in 2009 had the nickname of the “Fighting Sioux” which led to controversy between the NCAA and the Spirit Lake members, where the members sued the NCAA for letting the university keep their name. Frank Black cloud fought for their 81-year-old name saying it was huge pride but they lost the fight and had to retire their name after years of legal battles. Almost all 19 schools that were considered hostile or abusive to Native Americans changed their mascot after hearing they would be excluded from championship games. Alcorn State University is the only university whose name hasn’t changed “Braves” but have been excluded from championship games for 6 years now. However, Native Americans are being cherished by schools and teams who have them as a mascot. Many schools honor the logos and say “vital parts of our identity”, weren’t trying to disrespect the Native Americans at all. Almost 6,500 elementary schools and high schools use native Americans as their mascot and honor them. The use of Native American names boost sales in the Memorabilia sales, souvenirs or objects valued to a culture, historical events or entertainment.
While the fans of sports teams that discriminatory mascots feel it is fine to have an Atlanta Brave or a Washington Redskin, I think it is abusive behavior toward members of American Indian tribes. I believe that all high school, college, and professional sports teams should have to be required to change their Indian- based name, particularly if the tribe or group it represents is against it. The only way I think that it would be acceptable is if the team had permission to use the mascot, such as the Florida State Seminoles, who settled on an agreement with the tribe giving a member of the Seminole tribe scholarship and allowing the real Seminole chief to open the teams game. If the tribe that the team is representing is offended by the name or finds it prejudicial or abusive, that I think the name should be immediately changed regardless of the tradition the colleges and teams stand by. Furthermore, Native Americans have had a very harsh past in regard to how whites treated them when they first left Europe up into recently that needs to be respected. Many school teams are stubborn in keeping their Indian mascot because of said traditions which are supposed to honor them by using their name. I do not agree with this at all because they never had permission when this “tradition” first started. The tribe was not consulted when the team was constructed and named when they were first originating. Because of this, I don’t think the college or teams have any say in whether they keep their mascot nor do I think it is impossible to change. Many teams have switched their names to non- discriminatory names which are idealist as they are not hurting any group of people, especially those who have had a hard of a time in America as the Indian tribes.
I think that schools, colleges, and pro sports teams should be required to drop the use of Native American nicknames and mascots. In the FOX news video, Simon Moya Smith had said that Native American team names and mascots are offensive biogeted. Ben Shapiro had said that we should focus on greater Indian issues like the very low percentage of Native American college graduates. Of course, the college thing is a bigger issue, but I think that changing team names and mascot is definitely a step in the right direction. Whether they offend 100% or 10% of Native Americans, they should be changed because it’s the right thing to do. There are over five million Native Americans in the United States as of 2010. So, that still leaves over 500,000 people offended. I think that it’s only right to change the names. Many sports teams and schools use the fact that these names and mascots are “traditions” to justify them. In the antebellum South, slavery was justified because it was a tradition. While this does not compare to the animosity of slavery, neither situation is righteous even though they were traditions. I think that predominantly white attendees say that these names represent courage, spirit, honor, and respect as an excuse for the racism of the names. Many Indians see these names as slurs, whether they were meant to be offensive or not. I don’t think schools should be able to get local tribes’ permission in order to use their names. It’s time to retire these relics of a racist past to the trash bin of history. I don’t think that a couple of tribal leaders can speak for everybody. Even with permission, the slurs are still spread, and people are still offended. In the end, I think that the use of Native American nicknames and mascots should be legally banned from all schools and professional sports teams.
I do no have a problem with using Native American names as sports teams. I think as long as it is not being used in a negative or derogatory way then it is okay. I think if it comes up as an issue to that tribe then they should communicate with the tribe and understand why they don’t care for them to use it. I don’t think most teams are not using the names of theses tribes in a bad way. I think most of them use it to show a fierce warrior and a strong team/tribe just like that Native Americans were. I also agree with the the man in the news video on how people should be more worried about the fact that many Native American children are not getting the proper education and many of them are very poor and in need of assistance in anyway. We should not be debating if it is a good or a bad thing because most people don’t care. People should be trying to get the word out about the living conditions that many Native Americans face today. Using the name of a tribe can also benefit the tribe. Some of the schools allow for them to attend their school on scholarships. Many Tribes do not have a problem with teams using the name, but some white people speak above the tribe and make things a bigger deal then they really are. The white people should not be apart of the decision to keep Native American team names since it is based solely on Native Americans. All people have the right to freedom of speech, but this issue is focused mainly on Native Americans. We are the ones who came and interrupted their freedom so we should not do anything like that again.
I think that this question is hard for me to answer because I am one of those white attendees. I am part of the population that looks at the mascots- such as the Seminoles of Florida state- and don’t see them as savages or barbaric. When we went over the war of 1812 and the Jackson era, I knew who the seminoles were before we learned about them. I thought the the famous FSU chant was one of the coolest traditions in college football growing up, and it had sparked my interest as to where it came from. I learned about how relentless the seminoles were in their fight against Americans taking their land, and it inspired me to grow a liking for the seminoles. I view them as pretty (pardon my french) kickass people who do show some resilience and courage. People who dress up are doing it in support for their team, not as a way to insult Indians and downplay their suffering. I would go as far as saying a lot of fans hardly think about having indians as mascots. Fans are there for the game I feel, and no disrespectful action are occuring or encouraged. On top of that, the other team’s opposing fans almost never dress up as Indians as a way to insult the team, so there isn’t a lot of racist comments or actions made against the indian mascot from the OPPOSING TEAM. This observation is me obviously looking at things through my white male lens, and things I see may be seen differently by people of Native American decent. I think that schools should definitely have permission from local tribes in order to use the mascot. Without the permission, it can be indisputably viewed as disrespect to Native American people. I don’t think that schools would purposely have an indian mascot just to be racist and disrespectful. If schools resent indians so much, why would they decide to make it the symbol of their school? With permission from the tribe and an understanding that the mascot will be nothing but a symbol of respect and honor, I think that would make people on the fence feel more comfortable about the situation. All in all, I don’t see a problem with the current mascots, but permission from the tribe should be a must for the future.
In my opinion, I think that schools, college and pro sports team should be able to use Native American nicknames as mascots as long as they have been given permission by the tribe they are representing. Without that explicit permission, teams should remove their Native American nicknames regardless of the cost of making a new mascot or painting over the gym floors. I think that getting permission from the tribe would be a crucial step in making sure the team’s name can be viewed as respectful and cause no problems for anyone involved. I also think that if the team is allowed to use the Native American nicknames as mascots for a specific tribe, they should give the tribes compensation for their use. For example, Florida State, whose mascot is Chief Osceola received permission from the Seminole tribe to use him as a mascot. I think that is the perfect way to make sure schools aren’t being offensive in their use of Native American mascots. Native Americans have been screwed over and are still being screwed over. The conditions on the reservations are abhorrent and since the beginning of time Native Americans have been forced to move place to place and have been discriminated against. I think it would be good to show Native Americans that they are appreciated in America and help them try to recover while still respecting their culture and traditions. Though, I don’t agree with that notion that fans and other people see mascots as courage, spirit, honor, and respect. I’m sure some fans mock and berate the mascot, but as long as the school portrays the mascot respectfully and gets permission I don’t think that is a very important issue. I think wearing your mascot on a shirt just makes it easier to identify what team you root for and nothing more. I doubt that if someone puts on a Seminole jersey, they would think “I’m doing this for the underrepresented Native Americans”. To summarize, I think that pro teams, schools, and other organizations should make an effort to help the Native Americans and respect their culture.
When it comes to having Native American nicknames as mascots for sports teams and schools, I see how this can be disrespectful to tribes. It should be up to the Native American tribe to decide if they want to allow the school/team to use this nickname or if not. But yes, the school should get the permission of the tribe otherwise it is offensive to the tribes. However, if they don’t give permission to the school, the school should change their mascot. The Natives should choose how they want their culture/tribe to be represented as. If the school has offended the Natives culture by dressing up/mocking their lifestyle, then yes, they should be told to change their mascot. I understand that changing a school’s mascot can cost a lot of money, but if the school isn’t respecting Native’s cultures than it is their fault that they have to change their mascot. When a school says that their mascot is tradition or part of their identity, I think this should be disregarded because overtime traditions change. Native Americans want to be proud of their culture, as anyone should be, so not wanting to have their tribe on a mascot is perfectly normal, when being disrespected. Native Americans take these mascots as a provocative view on their life. Native American’s have been used to being tossed around, with us taking their lands and disrespecting their rights. This is something we have needed to change for a while now, Native Americans deserve our respect. So, when it comes down to the mascots, I would understand this built up anger the Natives have for us always disrespecting them. We have to respect the Native’s view of seeing these mascots as insults or stereotypical representations. This means we need to change our mascots for the better because Natives should have a say in how they want their culture to be seen as.
In my opinion, I think the use of Native American nicknames as mascots for schools and college and pro sports teams should not be allowed. First of all, many of these have no connection whatsoever to the tribe itself. I think if a school or team should represent something, it should at least be proud of it and correspond to it in some type of way. Although many white attendees say it shows courage, spirit, honor, and respect, I disagree. For one, I think it is very phony of them. It also could be used by many schools as a source of empathy for money or popularity. These schools and teams are using the Native American culture for reasons that just help out the school in the end. Native Americans have had a difficult past being disenfranchised and frowned upon throughout years of history. Society is still looking down on them, as we are using them as things such as mascots, comparing them to which are usually chosen as animals. I think if the school really wants to use a tribal name, they should have to get the local tribe’s permission. If the tribe itself is not offended by it, then there is no reason as to why they shouldn’t be allowed to not use it. Although the past and first members of the group cannot have a say in it, since they are most likely long gone. The tribe is now put into the hands of new leaders, and it should ultimately end up as their decision. In certain cases, schools want to honor these tribes and that is why they want to use them as a mascot, school name, etc. But in other cases, it is entirely just used for publicity. We may never know if the school is lying or telling the truth; they could be claiming something that is entirely false. All in all, I think it is very offensive to the Native American culture to use their tribe as a symbol without permission.
Although some teams want to preserve the history of their team, they should not be able to use Native Americans names because they are racist and not culturally responsive. The racial profiling with names like Redskins and traditions like the Braves’ tomahawk chop are disrespectful to Native American culture and history. Cynthia Connolly’s argument that to the fans, the Indians are trapped in the warrior culture of the 1800’s seems valid. Names like Redskins do not show the courage, spirit, honor, and respect that the tribes want, which is obvious in the way that many Native Americans have produced backlash surrounding the name. The name seems to be one of the names that traps the Native Americans in the warrior culture, instead of portraying them the positive light that is argued. If the Native American tribes do not wish to be represented in a certain way, then they deserve the respect to be listened to and have their requests administered to. The fact that teams have no regard for the changes in culture is ignorant. Even though teams, such as the Redskins, have been asked to change their names, they are stubborn, and it is not fair to the Native American wishes. It is crazy to me that it has gotten to the point of the government getting involved with the senators pushing for the Redskins to change their names. However, if the teams have permission from the tribes that they use and offer benefits to the tribes, then I think it would be okay for the teams to use the Native American names. An example of this is the Florida State Seminoles, who have an agreement with the Seminole tribe and offer special scholarships for the tribe. In addition, the tribe sees it as an honor to be represented by the school and to take part in the football traditions.
I don’t think native Americans should be used as mascots, unless the tribe specifically asks a school to be named after them. The school should only be allowed to have that mascot, or name if they are specifically asked to do so, by the tribe. I don’t think that these show spirit or honor at all. If something bad happens on the team, or anything not seen as good by the public, backlash can be carried onto the tribes name. A school shouldn’t just be able to ask a tribe for their name. I think if a tribe really wants their name out there, so the grounds of the school can be dedicated towards them, or whatever reason they want, then they should have the right to ask for it. Otherwise, if a school hasn’t been reached to by a tribe, they shouldn’t choose its name. This all being said for the future. As of existing schools, they definitely need permission. That would be like someone taking a company name from you. If at all the tribe doesn’t want their name associated it should be removed immediately. A school does not deserve this name without permission. Tribes carry a lot of honor within them, and in my opinion it is very offensive to be honored the wrong way. It is the same thing if someone does something bad and they have your family name. This could create a stereotype with the name. Anything Affiliated with the school might not be thought of with the tribes name. If a school is native based or contacted by a tribe it is a different story. This would include direct permission to use the name. If all expectations by tribes are met with the naming there would be no problem with this. Overall, for the future I think schools should be contacted by tribes, but, as of schools already with these names they should have permission from tribes, and if not change the name immediately.
Indian Mascots and team names should not be aloud for schools and college and pro sports teams. It is very offensive to the Indian culture and degrades them. These names do not show courage, spirit, honor, or respect. The names are simply ways to make mascots and actions that are very offensive. For example, the Atlanta Braves perform a tomahawk chop in their games which degrades Native Americans in our modern society. The Native Americans feel that when acts like these are performed it takes away their dignity and pride of what they do today. In 2019 the might be a doctor, businessperson, soldier, neighbor, etc, but the tomahawk chop performed by everyone in the arena makes them all considered savage fighters and warriors in the pre colonial time period to the fans. Native Americans don’t want to forget their past as warriors, but don’t want to have their past degraded or taken away from what they do today. I feel that if a school gets a local tribe’s permission to use the tribal name it makes it a bit better, but it still shouldn’t be used. For starters, it is super easy to switch your name to something different than a name that could be offensive to Native Americans. Many schools and teams have already done this and I feel that if they face any backlash, it would be less than if they kept the names. Also one local tribe doesn’t represent the whole Native American community. Yes, it may be more accepted, especially because one tribe approved of it, but other Native Americans might disagree and the easiest way to prevent that problem would be to just not have that type of name. These relics of a racist past should be put to rest and never used as team names.
While I support efforts to change names that may be offensive to some people at the end of the day I believe that forcing a team to change its name is unconstitutional and thus a violation of the first amendment. This is why I don’t think that the government should be able to force teams to change their names though I have no issue with members of the government sending letters encouraging them to change the name or organizations like the NCAA or NBA forcing the team to change its name. I also don’t think that teams should be required to ask permission to use a tribe’s name in order to use it legally speaking but I have no problem with private leagues requiring it as it is a show of good faith in the name’s usage. Now personally I think that these names don’t mean very much in the way of honor for Native Americans as many of these mascots are simple characters and some names are even considered slurs nowadays. However, many are not and that is a distinction that should be made on a case by case basis meaning that while it may be a good idea to retire many Indian mascots. On the other hand it seems that even though ‘Redskins’ is considered a slur according to the Fox News debate (which may very well not be accurate) a 2004 survey indicated that approximately ninety percent of Native Americans support the name which makes me question to whom the name change is even appealing to as apparently white Americans found more issue with the name than the people this slur is targeting. All and all I don’t see much of an issue with most of these names sticking around I think that this decision is not the governments to make but instead the owners of the teams and the organizers of the leagues that these teams to participate in. If these names were truly an issue for the average American then these teams would lose rating and profits which would force them to change but until that starts happening I see no reason to force out these names.
I think High Schools, colleges and pro sports teams should be allowed to use Native American nicknames or mascots as long as they have the permission from the Native American tribe they are using as their mascot or nickname and they’re paying some sort of reparations to the tribe. If the team or organization is using a Native American name as a mascot or name without the permission from the Native American tribe it is very offensive and very insensitive. The horrible acts committed by the white man against Native Americans in our country were so terrible that now when many pro sports teams are owned by rich white men they should definitely need the permission from Native Americans if they can use their name as the team’s mascot and should be paying for the privilege to do so. If the Native American tribe doesn’t allow the team or organization to use the name as a mascot then the team should be forced to change their mascot. Schools like the Florida State Seminoles and the Central Michigan Chippewas are allowed to keep their names because they both have permission from Native American tribes and contribute to the tribes. Central Michigan makes sure to honor the Chippewa tribe in Mt Pleasant, Michigan and has permission to use Chippewa as their school mascot and the same with Florida State and the Seminole tribe. Now in the case with the NFL team, the Washington Redskins that have had many Native Americans speak out against their team mascot should be made to change it to something less offensive and less insensitive. The MLB team the Cleveland Indians had a problem with their mascot name a few years back but have since changed their offensive logo and have started to contribute more to Native American tribes. The final point is that if a school or organization has permission from a Native American tribe to use their name as their mascot or nickname then they are allowed to as long as they contribute someway to the tribe but if the school or organization does not obtain permission from a tribe they shouldn’t be allowed to use the Native American name.
I don’t think the use of Indian Mascots is right for sports teams throughout the country. White attendees may say it shows courage and respect but I think they can’t be the ones to judge that, only Native Americans can truly decide if it is respectful or rather just hurtful. When your culture and heritage isn’t the one being put on display as a mascot, you can fully judge whether it is right or not, which is why only Native Americans can decide. The one exception to this that I do see is getting the mascot or name approved by the local tribe. With this approval, it shows that the local Natives aren’t offended and can actually get behind this. Without this approval I think the use of Indians mascots is rather wrong and unjust. I think a great example of the growing sentiments against these mascots is on display in the NFL. With half of Congress writing a letter for the NFL to take action on the subject. This shows how action against the problem is even taking center stage in a very popular part of American life and culture. The negative meaning these mascots hold add just another layer of problems for Native Americans and their kids especially. Pointed out in the video, not many of the kids graduate high school and go to college, they have lots of pressures and distractions in their young lives. This demeaning nature of the mascot gives a negative connotation to the kids about their own race and culture. Being referred to as a mascot never helps the development of young and can only further the downward path. I do think its a step in the right direction that some teams have removed their logos of Indian heads but that is just not enough. Also, accompanying this with a live mascot, a cartoon Native American is disrespectful and hurtful in appearance for Native Americans to have to view.
The debate over the changing of Indian names on sports teams, local or professional, has risen in popularity over the past decades. Although many teams had called themselves these names, including the Redskins or the Cleveland Indians, I believe that these labels have no place in sports whatsoever, and teams in which have these names should change them immediately. However, I do believe that sports teams should allow them if they are enabled to do so and given permission by its respective Indian tribe. Firstly, redskins is a derogatory term that shouldn’t be used to describe anyone, and has similar characteristics to other inappropriate words in our language. This word also, as stated by the speaker in the news video, also has many negative effects on children and their interpretation of the word. Redskins is racist to Indians of the respective tribe, and if they don’t allow the name to remain the same, the sports team should have no say, and it should immediately be changed. The other speakers in the video promoted the idea that over 90 percent of the population takes no offense and has no problem with the name “redskins”. Although this, the majority of the population isn’t Indian, and don’t take offense to it because of that reason. The group of people in which they reside haven’t been labeled redskins. Another speaker brought up the idea of freedom of speech in the conversation, and that people and sports teams should have a right to call their team what they want. However, this shouldn’t be allowed, as they are also allowing other derogatory terms to be allowed to be used to name teams and other groups, including ones labeling African Americans and other races. They also brought up the point that many teams refuse to change their name due to the high cost it would take to replace everything and paint over mascot drawings on school walls; however, I believe it is the tribe’s right to be able to enforce this authority.
I believe colleges should keep their indian mascots because the indians are a very proud and brave, courageous race and as long as they get the tribes permission, they should be able to keep it. In the past, american frontier men and government officials have destroyed or taken many of the tribal lands the Indians use to gather and live on. Many indians in the past such as Sitting Bull had conformed to the new american way and supported it by participating in the activities like buffalo bill’s shows. Although many people have been racist in the past toward people of the native american race, many people today respect them and do not want to take away their land. I see how some people could vote for the other side of things, that there should not be any Indian mascots. We have taken away their rightful land and took it for our own killing many native americans in the process. I think North Dakota, Central and Eastern Michigan university have the right idea about how to solve this problem. Many tribes a very seclusive and do not want to have anything to do with the current times, but some are willing to join in on spreading their name to the public. By using their tribe name, the Indians might be able to spread awareness of some of the bad conditions and work pay on some of their separate reservations. Many of the 19 colleges that have an Indian tribe as their mascot have not seen it as racist or unethical. Many of them have acknowledged this problem and want to fix it to serve all the conflicting communities. I believe the best way is to ask the tribe whether or no they can use it or not. If the tribe says they can not use it, then they have to find a new mascot. There isn’t even that bad of a problem if they say no because it’s easy to find a replacement mascot.
I Think that it is time for racist mascots to find their way to the “trash bin of history” for many reasons, primarily that the day and age of it being acceptable to promote the mockery of other cultures is gone, as we are now in the 21st century. Secondly, I believe that both the names and mascots of some teams are simply offensive and that there are so many better options for a mascot than that of a group who has, throughout history been downtrodden and abused. I think that, however, there is a median as some schools, like Florida State University, the seminoles, have permission from the tribes they represent to use the mascot, which I think is good, especially because their mascot is neither offensive or brash. If teams such as the Washington Redskins or the Cleveland Indians have totally offensive aspects to their teams, (which they do), they should have regulations passed against them and be forced to change their team name and mascot. The arguments against changing these offensive logos are weak and lack support. For example, professional sports teams that rake in hundreds of millions of dollars each year finding it “too expensive” to change their gear and logo is a bit of a stretch, and a very selfish outlook. Countless teams and schools across the nation have changed their logos to inoffensive and new teams with little difficulty, which proves the ridiculousness of how stubborn some teams can be. A new wave of progressiveism has swept across America and it’s time for the old fashioned ways of forefathers to be changed.
The debate between whether schools should be using Indians as their mascots has been being debated for decades, with the argument being almost equally split. Some people say that using them as their mascot is a sense of pride and shows the school’s history of how it came to be today. However, others say that using Indians as mascots only shames their culture and religion, being bias to many groups of Indians across the country. Personally, I do not think that Indian mascots should be allowed to be used in schools across America. Most mascots are based on fierce and wild animals to show a school’s competitiveness and strength towards others. When most schools like this were developed, many people thought of Indians to be wild and savages compared to civilized American society, comparing native American tribes towards these animals. I feel that this is beyond disrespectful to do by today’s standards, as all people are supposed to be treated equally. Using Indian tribe names not only makes them seem less than the rest of society but compares them to animals, which I do not think is very fair. Like said in the video, the use of Indians as mascots was based on racial bigotry, and only encourages this racial slurs and stereotypes to stick around. The video also showcased how many Native Americans actually do support the Indian mascots being used. Although the California redskins’ name has been changed today, it was previously supported by many native Americans as a sense of pride and of their history and culture. However, if tribes today do feel so strongly that they want to preserve their mascot name in schools, I do not think it is the end of the world. As long as the tribe feels comfortable with their name being used, I feel that it is fine for now. While I do not particularly agree with it whatsoever, it should not be up to politics to decide whether the name should be changed, but approval or denial for its use from the native american tribes themselves.
I think schools should be allowed to use native american tribes as mascots but under a few terms. I think schools should ask permission from the tribes to be able to use the tribes as their mascot. i also think that a lot of these schools mascots have to be renamed. schools that refer to themselves as Indians is highly offensive and disrespectful towards the tribes. these tribes either gain respect and or knowledge from these schools if not the schools are not allowed to represent them. misrepresentation can cause big problems and could hurt not only the schools reputation but also the real native american tribes. I think that tribes should be able to instantly deny schools of their mascots if they want. The schools should also be instantly able to comply and agree under the tribes terms. I feel like a lot of the big schools are good about this but smaller schools such as high schools should also honor the native americans judgements, their opinion is the only one that matters. Also stereotyping the tribes such as the football team the “redskins” that should not be allowed. I feel like a lot of schools and sports teams do not even take the tribes and native americans into consideration when making their mascot. Therefore it could be rude, insulting or disrespectful to the tribe. It can also be be racist and a form of cultural appropriation. In all i feel like the natives should be the ones to pick if a mascot is appropriate or not, it is them that the schools will be representing, which is kind or weird if a school is predominantly white or black the tribe might be misrepresented, tribes should have the overall power to veto any and all logos that they find racist, disrespectful, or simply unfitting from any school or sports team.
Schools should be required to get the tribe in questions permission to use any names for there school teams, but I don’t think that it should be completely prevented unless the mascot or logo is blatantly painting native Americans in a negative light. Any tribe should have the right to prevent a school or team from using their tribes name for their team, as it’s their name and not the school’s. And as long as “team spirit” doesn’t equate to people mocking or berating native Americans than it doesn’t seem like it would result in a huge issue. Some of these mascots may have racist origins but the ones that remain have mostly evolved past that and do seem to be what attendees of these schools claim they are. Native Americans are one of the most important groups in the history of the U.S and we can’t just write that off, some of these mascots were created for the purpose of mocking or putting down native Americans but these have been slowly phased out to a point where most teams that have a Native American mascot or team name aren’t meant to be harmful
I don’t believe that it is ok for schools and teams to have native American mascots. I believe it is just strange and disrespectful, but since native Americans are such a minority and the schools and teams are so stuck in their ways, these mascots have stuck around. If the mascots would’ve been any other stereotypical caricature of a race, they would’ve most definetly by now. It also isn’t a good excuse to use a local tribe as a way around it. People can be payed off and whats more important is if the thing in and of itself is right or wrong. This is undoubtfully wrong. What’s worse is if fans dress up like native Americans for games and such. A lot of the time, the costume and face paint and whatever they wear ends up being quite disrespectful. You’d think that if 50 senators, educated and generally infuelntial people, were to send a letter to the head of the NFL, you’d think something was wrong and ought to change, but nothing happened. It’s also not ok to say it would be annoying to change the uniform. Most of these teams and colleges take in a lot of money from their sports teams, so it shouldn’t be that difficult. Again, this is what is right and wrong and to change the mascot to something to something less racist and disrespectful would be the right thing to do. What’s so odd about this debate is that had the mascots been of another race like whites or blacks, the mascot would’ve most definetly been changed by now, especially if it were a slur. But because these people have been margianilized and pushed onto reservations and are such a minority, with only .9% of America’s population being native American, these names have been accepted in our society.
I don’t believe that using an Indian name is an insult. I believe that you should get approval from the tribe to use their name and they should benefit from it too. If the tribe does not approve of the sports team using their name then they should change it right away no matter what the cost is to change it. The natives have been forgotten about in U.S. history for so long and now its time to give them glory. When they are mascots they get attention and remembered. It also gives the native Americans who are living right now something to cheer for in that their name has a better meaning today. The most important part is that the tribes do not feel discriminated or made fun of like the mascot. That it is not promoting stereotypes about native Americans. The sports team using the name must show the most respect to the Indian image and help promote native Americans today. They should make native Americans welcomed to their sporting events to help promote their mascot and the people. Also, they have been using the native names for years and it is part of the tradition that the sports teams have developed and what their fans look forward too. I think that having the majority of white attendance does not change anything because they are still respecting and honoring the native culture. They are not mocking or disrespecting the tribes and the people. They should give the native Americans some sort of special discount for using their name for their teams. An important factor is how the native Americans whos name they are using feel they can not feel disrespected and being made fun of by the sports teams and their programs. They should make sure to promote native Americans instead of hurting their image.
I actually have some sort of first hand experience with this issue. As some of us may know, I was not part of the Birmingham school district prior to my freshman year. I went to St. Regis Catholic School & Academy, a small private school that was positioned right next to the infamous Brother Rice High School. Athletes that attend Rice are proudly known as the Warriors, and their logo is an abstract illustration of a Native American chief with orange skin and a full head of what I’m guessing are eagle feathers. This always made me uncomfortable because I knew that Rice students are predominantly white or Middle Eastern, and it was strange to me that no one said anything about their mascot.
In my opinion, schools with obviously questionable mascots or names should consider changing them (a name that comes to my mind immediately is the Washington Redskins). In Brother Rice’s case, nothing is really wrong with the name “Warriors”, but the logo of the team makes it pretty clear that they are referring to Native Americans. If they were to only change their logo to the letters BR rather than the strange depiction of the Native American warrior, for example, then they would be able to keep their name which has been a source of pride for many years.
Regarding the argument that states that naming sports teams after Native Americans is a demonstration of honoring them, I feel that it only applies to teams and schools that have a large Native American population. I do like the idea of receiving permission from tribal leaders to keep what would otherwise me known as controversial mascots or names. It allows the team to to know for sure if they are a source of honor or shame for the tribe.
In some cases, the use of Native Americans as mascots can be done respectfully. If the mascot depicted is actually representative and not a caricature and the name is respectful, it can be honorable. Teams should use pictures of actual Native chiefs instead of the racist stereotypes or even better something that doesn’t actually put the marginalized people on display such as the Kansas City Chiefs logo. If The team does use the image of a real native, they can not under any circumstances draw them with red skin Teams also have to avoid derogatory names for their mascots such as “redskin” and “savage” and also names with history behind them such as Indians. I think That the Atlanta Braves and Kansas City Chiefs are perfect examples of respectful representations of the Natives. However, the history behind many of these brands is very disturbing. Due to this fact, I think that perhaps people on local local reservations should get discounts or even free tickets and also ask for the blessing of the leaders of the local tribes. I also think that teams like the Washington Redskins and Cleveland Indians need to rebrand into something more subtle. Cleveland abandoned the disgusting stereotype that was their logo, which is a step in the right direction, but I believe that the name “Indians” is unjust. The reason that Native Americans were called Indians was because Columbus and his crew thought that he was in India and, because of their dark complexion, that the Natives were Indians. We now know that they are their own race and we cannot pretend that they aren’t by calling them false names. In conclusion, using Native American mascots can be done, but it must be with respect and care. While some teams have accomplished this, there is still a huge abundance of schools and organizations who are displaying a false version of Native culture and that needs to change.
In my opinion,I am fine with the use of Native Americans for either mascots or for team names, as long as the team is doing it out of respect rather than stereotyping. Although I believe that newer teams, or teams that have had recent changes to their logo or name should get permission from their local tribes to come to a decision on the branding. An example would be the team like the Cleveland indians, who have been caught in a recent controversy that resulted in them changing the logo this year, should have contacted local Native Americans about the issue or had some of them vie in to the decision of the change. But for the teams that are in the NFL or the MLB, the complete change of their name or logo may be too late. This is because of the branding that some of the teams have with their merchandising, which is an argument that the cleveland indians made with their branding. The team could possibly lose money if they had to rid their merchandise from stores across the nation. And the idea of recognition of the team after a change in a logo, merchandising or mascot can cause a team to possibly drift away in memory, unless they made their new branding well known by winning in a game or in a series of televised games. But for schools as well as college or little league teams, the branding of the team should either require a contact with a local Native American group or the removal of the mascot or logo from the team or school. The small scale of a local school can allow for this change to happen, as they would not lose too much money or recognition if there was a logo or mascot change.
I do not believe that Indian mascots should be allowed to be used for any sports team’s mascot: high school, college, or professional. It is beyond offensive to the tribe as most teams have never got permission to use their name as the mascot. Some colleges argue that these discriminatory and abusive names are rooted in their team’s history. I think its offensive even with permission. Most mascots for teams are animals or people of the past, such as Vikings, Cardinals, and Bears. Comparing a society still present in the the world to an animal or uncivilized group is highly offensive. They are essentially dehumanizing them. It may seem like an honor, but what does it really mean? These people represent a sports team, so it’s not much compared to what they represent as people. They were oppressed and treated unfairly for so long but stayed fighting. I think that’s much more of an honor than being the nickname for a sports team. Also, what does it say about their character? It makes them look weak; these people have been fighting against us for so long, and to give permission to let us use them as mascots, demonstrates them accepting defeat and giving up their beliefs. I think this act of using them as a mascot should be left in the past. As a society, we are beyond dehumanizing the minorities of our country. We should be empowering them, respecting them for the hardships they went through, and find a more legitimate way to honor them. Schools who tell native Americans that they are honoring them, are either lying or don’t see the big picture. They just use the name because society thinks it sounds cool. The amount of schools that use native American tribes as their mascots is insane; leaving this in the past will give teams more space to be creative and come up with a mascot the country can love but that is respectful of everyone in it.
In my opinion, it is offensive to use Native American tribes or names as a school mascot. If they aren’t given permission by the tribes, it’s is offensive and wrong to use their names as mascots. Using tribal names for mascots is offensive to tribes. It’s one more thing white people take from the Native Americans. Using these mascots does the opposite of what many claim. Instead of instilling pride, honor, courage, or respect, its demeaning, crude, and culturally insensitive. The only acceptable way to use one of the tribal names is to actually get permission from the tribes itself. For example, schools like Eastern Michigan and University of North Dakota got permission from the tribes to use their names as mascots. This means they are appropriating the culture, not misappropriating it. Cultural appropriation is the acceptable way to adopt traits or ideals from another culture. It’s respectful, is often done with permission from said culture, and doesn’t do anything to take the culture as your own. This is what schools that have asked permission from tribes have done. To Juxtapose this, misappropriation is the opposite, stealing another groups culture or traits without permission, and claiming them as your own. This is not only what boils down to culture stealing, but also robs the original group of a key part of their identity. This is what schools using tribal names without permission are doing. It can also be extremely damaging to the culture of origin. Using Native American tribal names as mascots creates the idea that these names are white peoples, not natives’. It also creates an issue for the new generations of Native Americans or any other culture, as it robs them of their identity and generational culture. Overall, the only acceptable way to use another groups culture is with permission and respect. As many of these schools have, asking permission or changing the name is the only acceptable and responsible course of action.
My position on the debate of whether using Native American mascots and names for sports team is that i would like to believe that the sports team are using the name of the tribe in honor as long as there are no slurs in the name or anything offensive i feel like they should be able to keep them especially if they get the permission from that tribe. However, if the tribe wants you to take the mascot or name down then you should because it is their own name which the team should respect but this whole situation can be seen in two ways i can see why Natives can be very sensitive on this subject and don’t want their name on a sports team since it’s the name of their people and a sports team especially if they make it somewhat racist like making the mascot skin look like a tomato for example the Redskins is a little on the offensive side being that native Americans don’t have red skin, to begin with.
Personally I do not see the nicknames and mascots as disrespectful in any way. I don’t think that the colleges or any school for that matter had any intention to make fun or poke at the native Americans as using their names and dress wear. I think they do show courage and honor. I believe the colleges mean nothing but respect towards the tribes and individuals used as mascots and names on certain teams. The natives at one point were very proud and strong people. They didn’t put up with anyone and stood up for what they believed. I think that when these colleges use these native Americans as mascots they mean to show the courageous and brave side of the Native American lifestyle and not the bad part. Yes there were some bad parts to the past with the Native Americans but that’s not what they mean to show with the mascots. I believe that if a school wants to use a local tribes name that yes they need permission. But if the tribe is world known or the tribe leader is famous they don’t need certain permission. A few years back there was controversy with the Professional hockey team known as the Blackhawks. There logo is the face of a Native American. Somewhere saying that it was offensive towards Native Americans and said it was making fun of their skin color. Others said it was out of honor and saying it was because they were brave and strong hockey players like the Native Americans were brave and strong hunters and gatherers. I think North Dakota could have kept their original mascot without having been called a racist school. Overall I think that schools can use Native American tribes as a mascot with certain regulations and permission, without racist intent.
I do not think we should use the names or mascots of Native American tribes for sport teams names. I think that these names hold no true value or respect in them. These are the schools that stole land from these Natives and helped ruin their life’s. If these teams or schools where Native based then it would totally be acceptable, but Because not many Natives attend these schools, it is just disrespectful. Saying that these mascots represent power, strength, and courage is just a cover up for not wanting to change their brand. No fan or member of the team is truly interested in the Native culture and no one cares enough to learn the beliefs. Getting the right to use the name or figure is a good attempt at being respectful, but I don’t think it does the tribes justice. Because these teams are not trying to promote the culture or educate people, they are using the rights given to them all wrong. These big universities are taking advantage of these small tribes who’s ancestors got punished for their beliefs and culture. It’s time that we just get rid of these kind of mascots and come up with new ones. Places like central and eastern have the right idea in trying to get permission but using the troubles at all is wrong. Hundreds of other animals or objects could be chosen for the schools so this is a simple rebranding fix. If tribes truly want to have their tribe represent a team then I guess it can happen, but I still feel that these tribes are being taken advantage of. To make it more fair the schools should donate money to the tribes or give a percentage of the profits to the tribes. This could then help the tribes do a mutual relationship could be created.
I don’t see any disrespect in the usage of Native American names or nicknames for mascots, especially when the college or sports team is honoring the name by using it for their beloved school or team. If the name isn’t doing any harm to the Native Americans it should be allowed to be named after them. Sometimes, it is beneficial for Native Americans. For example, Florida state was granted permission to use the name “Seminoles”, and in return, many people from the tribes have received scholarships to Florida State. Most Native Americans haven’t been affected by sports teams or mascots having tribe names. A poll of Native Americans from 2004 shows that approximately 90% of them didn’t mind the use of Native American mascots in sports teams. But, I think if certain Native American tribes have come forth and stated they are disrespected by these names, we need to do something about it. The NCAA identified 19 universities whose mascot/logos were deemed disrespectful towards Native Americans. With such a large number and a very public and credible organization, it is evident that there is a problem. Native Americans have had such a horrible and harsh history, through the years of being pushed off their own land and ignored by America, we owe it to them to respect their culture if they have stated it is disrespectful. Since these tribes and mascot names are a part of Native American culture, it should be their decision if they want the name changed or not. Although these schools didn’t choose the Native American names to disrespect them, rather honor their culture, I think we need to be respectful of their statement that the names are disrespectful. If there weren’t any complaints about the names of a certain sports team, I don’t think they should have to be changed because there is no harm being done. On the other hand, since Native Americans have come forth and shared their disliking for the names, we owe it to them to respect their opinions.
I personally think that using the tribes name is okay if the team gets permission from the tribe. The “Tomahawk chop” should probably go, but if a tribe lets them do it then I think it’s okay. It would be racist if they were stereotyping all Native Americans as red men who were very aggressive, but if the tribe appreciates the publicity then by all means, they should keep it. As for the students who really like and appreciate the Indian themed names, like Lloyd, they are justified to. The tribes opinions and final choice should trump the students, but they shouldn’t think the students to be racist just because they like their school name and are fighting to defend it. The video about Native Americans shows that they are just like us, and aren’t some mysterious mythical race that is allowed to be used for any use, like mascots. Using stereotypes to justify racist behavior makes sense, as many stereotypes are based on truths or averages of specific races or cultures. Even though they may be based on truths though, racist behavior should not be used at all. If the Native Americans don’t want to have their tribe names used as mascots for colleges that are mostly white, then they shouldn’t be used at all. As a Jew, I understand what it’s like to be a minority. If a football teams mascot was a stereotypical Orthodox Jew, along with the all black suit, hat, and very long sideburns with a big nose, I honestly wouldn’t be that offended. That may be because I’m not extremely religious, or it might just be my personality, but I do understand how others might take offense to a single depiction of all Jews as the same. Overall, I think that the mascots can easily be seen as racist by Native Americans as they only focus on the traditional side of their culture, but if a tribe allows the use of their name, then it is okay.
I think that it is very disrespectful to used an native american as a mascot. They are real people who have been oppressed and have gone through extremely hard times so i think that is wrong to treat them as a character the same as animals are portrayed as mascots. The sports teams often have nothing to do with the native americans and do not try to respect them at all. Some college teams like the florida state seminoles honor the tribe that is represented by their mascot and even use real indian traditions during half time. They even give scholarship money and special opportunities to members of the tribe and those who live on the reservation. There are many teams like the redskins that are very obviously racial slurs. I think that it is very disrespectful to used an native american as a mascot. They are real people who have been oppressed and have gone through extremely hard times so i think that is wrong to treat them as a character the same as animals are portrayed as mascots. The sports teams often have nothing to do with the native americans and do not try to respect them at all. Some college teams like the florida state seminoles honor the tribe that is represented by their mascot and even use real indian traditions during half time.
When it comes to the issue of using Native American references in the names that are given to the sports teams/mascots of schools of all levels and pro sports teams, I believe that it is in fact racially insensitive to the Native American tribes that the logos are associated with. America has not exactly been kind to the Native American race throughout its history, and frankly, the federal government doesn’t seem to be that nice to them now. Many Native American reservations throughout the United States are in very bad shape, seeing that the natives that live on them are granted with little to no property rights, making it so that these individuals end up falling down a rabbit hole of misfortunes such as alcoholism, increased school dropout rates, and corruption. And with these limitations, the only jobs that are often available are those a long distance away, across miles of undeveloped land, which can not even be utilized for farming as a source of income; it all just ends up becoming an endless cycle of frustration among the native peoples of the reservations. With this in mind, I think the least that schools could do is be cordial to the wants if the Indian population. Unless given specific permission by their corresponding tribes, I think that sports teams should not use Indians references or nicknames, and using a what they call “a sense of honor and tradition” is not excuse for the fact that these names not only culturally insensitive, but they are painful reminders of mistreatment in the past.
I believe that schools with permission should be allowed to continue using Indian symbols while those who aren’t granted permission should not. Although America believes in freedoms, mocking a culture should not be allowed. I also believe that even though it would cost immense amounts of money to change the uniforms, courts/fields, ect. I believe that teams without permission have to do that. Looking at it from a different angle, some teams have had their names and Indian mascots since the early 1900s. This shows a history of the team, that most would not want to change. Even though i believe schools should not have to change, I don’t think mocking it right. At sports events most people don’t look at the mascot and honor them, they look to them as a sign of entertainment. Thus, giving the reasoning behind indians wanting the removal of their symbols away from franchisement. Considering their counter argument to my claim, if i were to be Native American, i believe i would enjoy my culture being displayed as an NFL team or any other team. I would feel a sense of dignity and it would draw my attention to the team if my nationality was displayed on it. My opinion believe teams should keep the name through a positive outlook, although there are negative facts against it. The NCAA deemed 19 schools to be using Indian symbols as being offensive or abusive to their culture. In this case, i would definitely agree that a name and mascot change is needed. If your own nationality or culture were to be mocked i would definitely have a problem if it was based on entertainment of others. Connecting back to my original claim i stand by believing that schools with permission do not need a name change while those without permission need to change it.
I believe that these names should be changed immediately. The Native Americans have been a suffering minority in America since its formation in 1776. It isn’t fair to keep on chopping them down, we are in the modern era, and these types of names don’t belong anymore. At one point, these names probably did come from the kindness of others. Maybe the person in charge who adopted these names thought it was a good idea, but that has rapidly changed. These names brought courage, honor, and respect to the whites. This made them feel better about their white guilt. Now we are in a place where it is time to make others feel better, the Native Americans have been held down for so long, this is just the first of the issues. I believe that it is just time to retire these relics as a whole. It might be ok to some tribes, but it’ll still tear down the picture as Native Americans. As a nation, most citizens don’t know the difference between the Cherokee and the Spokane tribe. They see one tribe as all tribes, so they will do the same with the names in sports leagues. I think that these names are just the first layer of the issue for Native Americans. They need aid in so many ways, and this is just the first cameo about Native Americans that get national publicity. They need aid in so many different issues like education, housing, health care ext. It isn’t fair to keep these names, and it isn’t fair to just stop here. We need to dig deeper as a nation, we need to get to the root of these issues. The legislation should be doing something to help them in a strong way. They have been a struggling minority in the U.S for far too long.
In an Ideal world, there should be no problem with having a Native American as a school mascot but sadly, such a world does not exist. For the past couple years the debate over whether or not these mascots should be allowed has been at the forefront of the college realm. On one hand, there is a group of people the feel these mascots are a mockery and do nothing but keep the ongoing oppression of Indians. On the contradicting side, the usage of these mascots are not only justified but also encouraged. Even though some people call for an immediate change in mascot and that be final, that route is just too simple. People should be informed about the history of America and the Natives, and more importantly how the Natives themselves feel. Personally, I believe that if the mascots aren’t portraying the Natives in a negative light than it’s completely fine. I would also go so far as to say it should be an honor for Natives that they are being used to represent an entire school. Mascots, especially for sports, are supposed to be elite, fierce, superb, and also heroic symbols. Schools, like Central Michigan and the University of North Dakota try and tap into the legendary spirit of these great people to conquer their enemies. Even with all of these pros, this does not give schools the right to go ahead and start using Natives whenever they feel like it. Every school should consult the actual tribe being portrayed before making anything official purely out of respect and admiration. If these establishments really meant what they say about honoring these people, the most respectful thing to do is ask for permission. Florida State University, for example, has gotten complete and undisputed sanction on the usage of the Seminole tribe as their mascot. In conclusion, the honoring of any group of people should always be allowed, but only if the intensions are pure. And even then it goes down to the most basic principle. Permission.
I think Native American mascots sometimes can be insults and other times are a sign of honor. An example of a mascot being an insult if the name of the tribe was used without permission of the tribe Them selves and or if they portrayed the mascot in a manner which might be possibly seen as inappropriate and or racist by the tribe members. However in the unlikely event that the school or organization with the tribal mascot was one owned by a Native American tribe then that would not be insulting at all, since their making it their own mascot by them selves. If the Native Americans portrayed by the mascot find it to be acceptable and not offensive then it is ok.
One example of the Native American Mascot being a real sign of honor is Florida State University. Florida State University has gained the permission from the Seminole tribe to use the Seminole name for their mascot, Florida State University not only just gained permission of the Seminole tribe for their name but they also give back to the tribe by offering them up scholar ships and other benefits as well such as donations.
One example of a Native American themed Mascot being an insult to Native Americans was the Sports team named “The Red Skins”.”Red Skin” is a racial slur towards Native Americans. However the Percent of Native Americans that do not mind the name of the sports team is the majority and only a small percent do find it offensive. It is not considered that big of an issue in the Native American community, but I think Since some Native Americans still do find the name to be offensive that it and others that might be offensive should be changed as well.
I believe that the NFL and other sports teams should have to change their team name/ mascot unless the schools are given permission. I say this because like stated in the FOX News video, even though the names started out as a good thing but it has been proven to have a negative effect on kids. It reminds people that it is a slur because NAtive Americans are fun to “play” and act like them on Indian. The crimes against natives in this country are heavy and using their names without compensating them is awful. The schools use the name without the tribe’s permission then lie in order to keep it. If the school wants to use the name then they should be paying some type of reparation to the said tribe as well as get the tribes permission. Native Americans lost most of their population due to being massacred by Americans if they’re outraged by these names it’s justified and schools should be forced to give it up. I think for Americans even to give answers such as the mascot is somehow being honored by the school is stupid and disrespectful, it’s a mascot, it would be easy to change. The University of North Dakota, for example, had the right idea and more schools should follow their example and get the respective tribes permission or drop it entirely. So, in conclusion, I believe we need to take the suffering that Native Americans endure should be taken more seriously and be taken more into consideration when thinking of changing the names of popular sports teams.
I think that if a school wants to use a native tribe member as their mascot, they should have to get permission from a local tribe. Or there should be a committee or something of Native Americans that decide on it together. But it is their people, and although being a school mascot is an honor, it should still be their decision. That would be like a school on a reservation having their mascot be George Washington or Abraham Lincoln. We took their land and everything they had, so the least we can do is ask. I think it’s just respectful. These are the people that the Native Americans look up to, who showed bravery and perseverance. They are their heroes. I don’t know if we have earned the right to use them. Throughout history we have neglected the Native Americans and taken everything they had and claimed it our own. I don’t think we should be doing that with their people too. It’s not mocking, but some people could take it like that. However, I do think if the Native Americans had a problem with this they should have said something sooner than now. Some of these teams have been around for 50+ years, and they are just now saying they have a problem with it. Now, yes, we should have asked in the first place to avoid this conflict, but it’s also kind of late to do anything now. It might seem less important to some people because that is the way it has been for so long, but in conclusion, I think that schools and sports teams should ask before using an indian tribe as their mascot, because it should be there right, and it’s the least we could do after all we have taken from them.