"For a long time, this country worked hard to rub out native people. After the government-sanctioned genocide finally stopped, Hollywood took over and continued the effort to slander the Indian culture by using Caucasian or Hispanic actors to play the now politically incorrect dim-witted, intoxicated or scalp-happy Indians. Many of today's mascots are strong, proud, respectful renditions of our ancestors. Having them on the field or court helps keep the historic American Indian culture alive.

Force the Indian mascots out, if you wish, Mr. Narcomey, but you're only helping those who want to obliterate the native cultures from public consciousness. Perhaps you would also like to tackle the Cowboys, Pirates or Patriots; I have all of them in my family line, too. Should we be offended that they're used as mascots? I'm not."

Get the Story:
J.A. Ingle: Keep American Indian sports mascots (The Oklahoman 9/21)

Related Stories:
Column: Seminole Nation man still upset with 'Osceola' mascot (9/16)