These mascots are perpetuating negative stereotypes of an ethnic group and diminishing the right and opportunity of Native Americans to appropriately identify our culture. This is another form of institutional racism. The lack of respect prevents the general public from acknowledging serious issues. We have taken much heat and the backlash has been tremendous, but we can take it. If our children do not have to endure the insults we have endured, then our efforts will have been worth it.
Education is an essential element of the struggle to bring about change.
Change means departing from long-standing tradition. We can reeducate people about the use of Native American mascots, nicknames, and the tomahawk chop in a more culturally responsive manner. We can emphasize the importance of creating a healthy, positive attitude about the Native American people who helped to transform America and the world. Then the voices for a new dawn can sing not with pain but in joy. Send comments about this article to the Editor, Kathy Lancaster .