The word Redskin derived from the practice of skinning Indians for easy transport when collecting bounty. The skin was removed from the top of the back and ran all the way down the legs. These skins were used for products such as reins, boots, belts, pouches, etc. Andrew Jackson, who was one of the worst enemies of the Native people, and by far the most brutal president towards Native people, collected the noses of every Indian he killed and encouraged the practice of skinning. Native people are not red. Mostly they range from tan to brown. Redskin comes from bloody skin. The most common mascot names are: Eagles, Tigers, Cougars, Bulldogs, Warriors, Lions, Panthers, Indians, Wildcats, and Bears. While Bulldogs are not seen as prey, they are seen as determined and feisty animals. All the rest of the names on that list, 9 out of 10, have been hunted. Native people were hunted and bounty was paid for them. No other race appears as a mascot name, because no other race was hunted. People hang animal heads in their dens and Indian heads in their gymnasiums. The majority assumes that it should be able to retain a symbol they have owned for decades, but as with all civil rights issues, the majority must defend the rights of minorities. If we lived by majority rule in civil rights issues, might we still have slavery today? And shouldn’t we all take a stand against oppressive actions, even if they are not occurring in our areas? Over 81% of respondents to a poll in Indian Country Today, 500 Native organizations, hundreds of tribes and petitions with signatures in the tens of thousands have called for the retirement of these mascots. If you really want to honor Native people, listen to the voices around the country that are asking to be heard. No matter what the name, if someone says they dont like it, then only a bully would continue to use it. Students and Teachers Advocating Respect ROSEPETL5@aol The STAR - Students and Teachers Against Racism web site is the Copyright © 2002, 2003 of Christine Rose racismagainstindians.org/UnderstandingMascots.htm
Posted on: Wed, 25 Jun 2014 03:33:45 +0000
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