Reader: I Don't Know Why Native American Mascots Are Supposed to Be Racist

Last week, a bill that would have imposed fines on schools that refused to abandon Native American mascots deemed offensive died in a Senate committee. The vote was 3-2 against, with Republicans representing the majority and Democrats on the losing side. The topic is certainly a passionate one for our readers...

By Michael Roberts

May 4, 2015

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Last week, a bill that would have imposed fines on schools that refused to abandon Native American mascots deemed offensive died in a Senate committee.

The vote was 3-2 against, with Republicans representing the majority and Democrats on the losing side.

The topic is certainly a passionate one for our readers. Our posts on the topic have collected hundreds of comments.

Here's the take of someone who feels the controversy is overblown.

Jay Cismaru writes:

I don't mind Indian names or Indian mascots. I don't know why everyone says it's racist. I think they are a proud people, a strong people and all the mascots statues and whatever present them in the most positive and strongest manner.

Send your story tips to the author, Michael Roberts. For more memorable takes, visit our Comment of the Day archive.

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Michael Roberts began his career with Westword in 1990 as music editor. In 1999, he took on a new role, full-time media reporter, as author of a column called The Message. In 2008, he became the lead writer for Westword's news blog, The Latest Word, a position he held until January 2023. Michael continues to freelance for Westword, covering everything from business to sports and the media; he also contributes to Jazziz, a national music magazine. He holds a bachelor's degree from what is now Colorado Mesa University and master's degrees from the University of California, Los Angeles, and Northwestern University.

Contact: Michael Roberts

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