Native American Names As Mascots: A Racist Dilemma

Nikolai Sprouse
Ms. James
English 10 Honors
11 April 2023
Native American Names as Mascots: A Racist Dilemma The use of Native American names as sports mascots has been an extreme topic for many years when it comes to racism in sports. Many sports teams, primarily in North America, adopted the names, symbols, and characters as a part of the brand's identity. Although, the practice has been chastised by many Native American advocacy groups and tribes, especially arguing that it refers to rude and harmful stereotypes which reduce a diverse culture into nothing more than a drawing. The debates that surround the usage of Native American names, characters, and symbols in sports are a continuous problem with two sides arguing whether or not the

The bans, which were enacted in several states, are necessary steps toward creating a more inclusive and respectful environment for Native American students, people, and communities. A main argument that is in favor of the bans is that they are responding to the concerns of Native American leaders who have long argued that the use of specific mascots is offensive and disrespectful. These leaders argue that the use of Native American mascots perpetuates harmful stereotypes and adds to the erasing of Native American culture. By banning the mascots, states are sending a message that they value and respect the voices and cultures of the Native American communities. Another argument against using Native American mascots is that banning them is an important step toward creating a more inclusive and respectful society and environment in schools and sports. The use of Native American mascots can create a hostile environment for Native American students, families, and fans, who may feel belittled and disrespected. By banning these mascots, schools, and sports teams are taking an extreme step toward making a more welcoming and inclusive environment for all students, families, and

Native American mascots reduce the indigenous people to a mere cartoon, ignoring the diversity and richness of their cultures, and the many practices and rituals they have. These mascots treat indigenous cultures as if they are relics of the horrid past, ignoring the fact that indigenous people continue to exist and thrive in modern societies. Using Native American mascots trivialize the serious issues the indigenous community face, such as discrimination, racism, poverty, and