Check out our jam-packed events calendar. On April 13, the U.S. Commission on Civil Rights issued a resolution denouncing the use of Native American images and team names by non-Native American schools. Though non-binding, the resolution strengthens the arguments put forward by opponents of mascots and team names. While few Texas colleges and universities still retain their Indian-themed mascots, nearly 200 elementary and secondary schools statewide continue to use them. Proponents of the mascots claim that the mascots honor the American Indian and offer students the chance to learn about Indian heritage.
Many schools hold special ceremonies during the school year to celebrate Native American culture.
The American Indian Cultural Support organization says many of the so-called heritage days provide misinformation about Native American culture and history. To add insult to injury, the mascots themselves are often freakish caricatures that, AICS suggests, would not be acceptable if applied to any other race. To me, the bottom line is if the people who are meant to be honored, no matter how noble the intention, are instead insulted, it is time to consider changing school icons. If you have a username and password, Log In here. If not, please include your name and home town at the end of your reply.