Indian Logos Essay

587 Words3 Pages
The use of Indian Logo’s in Schools Mascots are a deep rooted tradition in sports at all levels. Mascots help not only the students of that organization, but the whole communities feel strong ties to the school. While they were never meant to be used as a form of racism, many Native Americans feel that they are detrimental to their culture because as they say it promotes a negative image. Indian Logo’s in schools do not promote a negative image towards Indians; they instill a sense of pride in anyone associated with that organization. Indian Logo’s that are used in school sports at any level were intended to invoke fear into the hearts of their opponents. Barbara Munson wrote in her selection about the use of Indian Logo’s as a vehicle of institutional racism. As Ms. Munson is Indian, she makes some very good points about how her family has been treated over the years and her views of Indian Logo’s in schools. Old western movies portrayed Native Americans in a bad way and no one has attempted to put a stop to that. But old western movies don’t have years of tradition behind them. Go to a Florida State home football game and watch the reaction of the crowd when a student dressed as Chief Osceola rides out and drives a fire-lit spear into the ground. The crowd comes alive with excitement in anticipation of the game that is about to happen. Not one soul horse was portraying Indians in a negative manner. Tradition is a strong force when it comes to team sports. No matter if a team is called the Braves, the Seminoles, or the Indians, tradition runs deep with all of these organizations. Many organizations have been changing the use of Indian logos over the last several years. That, in my opinion should be left up to that particular organization. If any organization feels that it would be best to change, them it should change. No sports organization should have to
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