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Native American Mascot Research Paper

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Native American Mascot Controversy In a recent study conducted by the sociology professor at California State University, James Fenelon, it was found that out of 786 Native Americans 67% agreed that the term ‘Redskins’, used in sports team’s names, is offensive. Redskin’s and any other Native American term, slang or imagery is offensive and should not be used because these things are sacred to Native American culture, and most of the mascots and the terms used are stereotypical, degrading, and dehumanizing. Many of the mascots used today and in the past related to Native American culture, and though the name may not be meant for the intent to harm or disrespect, they still do cause this. It is their culture and religion and it should not …show more content…

Making a person a mascot is rude and takes away their human aspect, they seem just like something that is watched in amusement not a person who cares about what they are called. Using terms like ‘Indians’ and having the mascot in the typical head dress with feathers is extremely stereotypical when most Native Americans today wear normal clothing and are like anybody else. The president of the NCAI (National Congress of American Indians spoke on this topic. “The invisibility of Native peoples and lack of positive images of Native cultures may not register as a problem for many Americans, but it poses a significant challenge for Native youth who want to maintain a foundation in their culture and language. The Washington team’s brand — a name derived from historical terms for hunting native peoples — is a central component to this challenge" (NCAI President Brian Cladoosby). The end of his quote talks about the term ‘Redskins’ which is the team mascot for the Washington football team. Redskins refers to the bounty for the bloody scalps of Native Americans, which is id obviously very offensive and

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