"Arguments about the Fighting Sioux nickname and logo have gone on sporadically for half a century, and at full volume for at least a decade. The one thing missing through the whole sad affair was a listening ear — one tuned to native people and their opinions.

In the beginning, supporters of the nickname arrogantly refused to listen to objections from native people.

As the arguments developed and compromises were offered, state officials largely stood aside. The Board of Higher Education initially showed little inclination to deal with native communities, and elected officials by and large stayed away from the controversy.

In the end, opponents of the nickname dismissed native people who supported it.

Response to the controversy among native people was divided. At Spirit Lake, an election was held, the name was approved and the tribal government became the most visible support for the name. At Standing Rock, the tribal government refused to allow a referendum."

Get the Story:
Mike Jacobs: Matters at Hand: North Dakota should find away to honor the Sioux (The Grand Forks Herald 6/17)

Related Stories:
Reservation turnout very low for referendum on 'Fighting Sioux' (6/14)
North Dakota voters support retirement of 'Fighting Sioux' nick (6/13)
Decision day for voters on future of 'Fighting Sioux' nickname (6/12)
Editorial: Vote yes to retire 'Fighting Sioux' controversy at UND (6/11)
Opinion: Vote 'yes' to eliminate 'Fighting Sioux' mascot at UND (5/29)