Indian-Themed+Mascots+in+USA

**Indian-Themed Mascots in the United States by Rachel Orsinger** 
 * **Thesis:**There are mixed feelings about the controversial topic of having Indian-American themed mascots; however, most people believe they should be removed or changed.
 * **Summary:**Many people feel that sports team's names and schools should not refer to American-Indians. In some people's perspective, it is honored and revered but others view this as an insult and disgrace. Since Natives were not allowed to use their feathers and perform ceremonies at the time when many of the most well known teams chose their American-Indian name, these names and symbols are practically mocking the Natives. Some American-Indians feel uncomfortable attending sporting events, especially children, while opposing fans are screaming "Kill the Indians" or "Scalp the Sioux". These names have developed into tradition for many schools; however, is it still ethical?

[] Above is a video of the "Seminole War Chant" Chief Oseola Florida State Seminoles- Controversy

=Timeline= Act 250, which became Wisconsin law in 2010, is landmark civil rights legislation. It establishes a complaint process for residents of school districts with race-based "Indian" logos. Illinois -- The university radically revamped its logo, but retains the nickname Fighting Illini.
 * **2010** Wisconsin passed a law giving residents the right to contest race-based nicknames, logos, or mascots
 * **2005** NCAA identified 19 universities with names considered hostile or abusive and instituted rule to strong-arm these schools and change their nicknames
 * **2005**- APA (American Physiological Association called for immediate retirement of all Indian American mascots, symbols, images and personalities by school, colleges, universities, athletic teams and organizations
 * **1933** Redskins name was adopted during their second season while owned by George Marshall, a known racist.
 * **1920s-1978** it was illegal for Native people to practice their religion and often were imprisoned for using the same items in ceremonies as used in mimicking sporting events
 * **1972** Stanford university changed its name all by itself from the “Indians” to “Cardinals”
 * **1920s-30s** most mascot names, ceremonies with feathers, drums and clothing were developed