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WEAC opposes use of American Indian nicknames

Posted: 1/13/2010 4:13:36 PM

A school’s use of an American Indian name, nickname, logo, or mascot "stands in the way of Wisconsin citizens gaining a deeper understanding of important American Indian issues," WEAC said Wednesday in a statement to the Senate Education Committee.

WEAC presented the statement in support of Senate Bill 25, which would allow school district residents to object to their school board’s use of a race-based name, nickname, logo or mascot by appealing to the state superintendent of public instruction.

WEAC said it believes that the hearing process described in the bill and the state superintendent’s ability to levy a financial penalty is fair and reasonable. It went on to say:

"As you are aware, Wisconsin school districts using American Indian names, nicknames, logos, or mascots draw considerable criticism. It raises the objections of American Indian tribes, groups, and citizens in our state to being reduced to caricatures. WEAC opposes the use of American Indian mascots, nicknames and logos by Wisconsin school districts and supports accurate teaching and curricular materials relating to American Indian issues, past and present."

The statement cites WEAC Resolution B-17 (formerly B-16), adopted by the Representative Assembly, that states, in part, that WEAC "supports and recommends the elimination of American Indian mascots, nicknames, logos, fight songs, insignias, antics and team descriptors by all Wisconsin schools."

Read the entire statement (Microsoft Word document)

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Comments 5

  1. Carol 1/23/2010

    I believe that schools choose nicknames and logos out of respect, so I don't understand how people think it is "degrading" to Native Americans.

    I think we're going too far in trying to be politically correct on this issue. 

  2. Rachel Byington 1/19/2010

    Thank you WEAC for supporting Senate Bill 25. I spoke before the Senate Education Committee with these words:
    There is and has been for many decades a debate over the use of Native American mascots  Feelings range from outrage to indifference and everywhere in between. Dr. Cornel Pewewardy from the University of Kansas-Lawrence points out, "It has been well established by clinical psychologists that the effect on children of negative stereotypes and derogatory images is to engender and perpetuate undemocratic and unhealthy attitudes that will plague our society for years to come." Our  education systems should be used to teach about diversity not learn acceptable forms of racism. Therefore with a responsibility to our society, it is our ethical duty and professional responsibility to eliminate racism in our education systems. 
    (shortened due to length) 

  3. Ron Martin 1/19/2010

    I understand the concern with expenses associated with changing a logo and nickname - however there are plenty of people out there with money who will be more than happy to give to support athletics - booster clubs, etc.  Most would gradually make the change.

    I am excited to see WEAC support legislation that really is in the best interest of schools and kids. 

    If my grandmother were alive today she would be proud to see that her people, the Chippewa people and all other Native Americans in Wisconsin finally being treated with respect and dignity.

  4. Kathy Rohde 1/18/2010

    Don't get me wrong. I think all the offensive logos should absolutely be changed. However, there is an expense assoicated with changing names - - uniforms, letterhead, painting the gym floor, signage. Can school districts who opt to change their logos get financial help for doing so? Otherwise, it's another unfunded mandate and an impediment for willing change.

  5. Marian Seagren Hall 1/17/2010

    Thank you, Mary Bell and WEAC, for supporting SB 25 and confirming this position. It has been taking so many years, the lagging schools need to come around.

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