The NCAA's new policy on Indian mascots is a positive step, the president and professors at Montana State University said.

Wayne Stein, a professor of Native American studies and a Chippewa, said Indian mascots are racist and dehumanizing. Walter Fleming, associate professor of Native American studies and a member of the Kickapoo Tribe, said he is offended by antics associated with mascots.

MSU President Geoff Gamble said he supports the decision. He said schools need to be sensitive to the concerns of Native people.

Get the Story:
NCAA Indian mascot ban praised at MSU (The Bozeman Daily Chronicle 8/12)

NCAA Announcement:
NCAA Executive Committee Issues Guidelines for Use of Native American Mascots at Championship Events (August 5, 2005)

Relevant Links:
NCAA Minority Opportunities and Interests Committee - http://www1.ncaa.org/eprise/main/
membership/governance/assoc-wide/moic/index.html
National Coalition on Racism in Sports and Media - http://www.aimovement.org/ncrsm

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