Native American Mascots

     The term mascot originally derives from French and Portuguese words which refer to a an object or talisman that brings luck to a person or family member. These items were looked upon as great assets, which were held in highest regard. Somewhere along the line though the translation has been lost to the racism which has corrupted systems of society for centuries. This is the issue at hand. The use of Native American mascots is outright racism. Although it may seem harmless, this is where all issues begin; with a spark to set the chain reaction, which leads to racial profiling, segregation, and mistreatment of the race and culture in itself. Every major catastrophe not brought upon by nature has started with this minute trigger. For example, while assassination is not exactly minute, the murder of Franz Ferdinand by the Black Hand, Serbian member brought upon one of the largest wars in human history, World War I. In comparison to the massive damage it caused, the murder was minute. There is a reaction which occurs, a cause and effect which would leave me to question this not-so-important issue. Perhaps this is the spark which would cause the start of a new era of slavery with a new race. This potential oppression and dehumanization is not something worth risking. It seems extreme to believe such an event could occur simply from the use of Native American mascots, but the possibility is there.

     When considering the issue of using Native American mascots, I sincerely believed there is a decent argument for the usage. Such a symbol could be seen as a paid homage to the trials and mistreatment the culture had to endure as they had their home stripped from them (I guess "finders-keepers" did not apply to the explorers of the New World). So these mascots could be seen as honorable. Linell Broecker writes in "Opinions" of The Washington Post, "Teams choose Native Americans as mascots and role models because people admire these people. We view them as strong and courageous with many other positive qualities, not as negative stereotypes." Unfortunately, as I considered even more, I came to realize I have been in these shoes. Being Hispanic, I have had my share of derogatory terms and slander which were personally offensive. I understand what the implications of the use of these mascots is and I would not appreciate the situation whatsoever. While I have never had to deal with a sports team mascot insulting my heritage, I know the unfairness of unequal, unnecessary, and racial mistreatment. If the circumstances were flipped to naming a team the "Beaners", "Rafters", or "Spicks", I would be absolutely furious. Although harmless at first glance, Native American mascots are simply causing unnecessary controversy when clearly the use is unjust. This country is founded on equality. This is not equal. Change is necessary.