I have do disagree with John based on the studies/polls I've read.
U of PA poll of Native Americans from every state except AK and HI:
..an overwhelming majority of them are not bothered by the name of the Washington Redskins.
Only 9 percent of those polled said the name of the NFL team is ââ?¬Å?offensive,'ââ?¬â?¢ while 90 percent said itââ?¬â?¢s acceptable.
Peter Harris Research:
Here's the most important finding: "Asked if high school and college teams should stop using Indian nicknames, 81 percent of Native American respondents said no. As for pro sports, 83 percent of Native American respondents said teams should not stop using Indian nicknames, mascots, characters, and symbols."
S. L. Price reaches the obvious conclusion:
Although Native American activists are virtually united in opposition to the use of Indian nicknames and mascots, the Native American population sees the issue far differently.
The larger question is this:
Is no awareness better than having 10-15% of Native Americans offended?
That's the debate. Take FSU as a perfect example. The Sioux tribe strongly supports the name and is actively involved with the university. Why is the NCAA overstepping it's bounds and attempting to force a name change? Get real. Stop wasting time and focus on much bigger issues such as graduation rates, grades, under the table money, recruiting violations, steroids, athletic leniency, drugs, alcohol, etc. etc. It's just another example of an organization trying to do
something rather than tackle real issues.
IMHO, if the logo, mascot, celebrations, etc. are done tastefully, let it go.
John, Goat envy is not a reason to stir up trouble.
