Native Mascots

In my opinion, Native American symbols, war heros, chiefs, etc. should not be used as Mascots for sports teams. Granted some may argue that by being chosen for a mascot it would be in some way honorary to the tribe involved and they should be proud to have a symbol of power exemplified nationally, however this idea seems to be the quickest way to justify the use of sacred Native symbolism for a sports team. These symbols of Native culture are powerful, historic, and in some cases part of the religiosity of Native cultures; using these symbols are offensive even if they try not to be. What these Native symbols stand for is so much more than how they are represented. They are worthy of much more recognition and respect than how they are presented through commercial sport. Especially acknowledging what Native Peoples went through when their land, families, and complete rights were taken over, we should not have the liberty to use what they represent at our disposal. What Native symbols stand for it for Native peoples, not for us to use as we please. Their internal connections and history connected with these symbols is extremely powerful for them and should not be made as a mockery or be valued above the true meaning. When you see someone wearing an Indian's t-shirt, you are not going to think of what that symbol represents, but rather the team it belongs to. Using these symbols in a way other than to respect and honor the history involved is socially irresponsible and demeaning to the culture.