"A heady moment of absolute clarity struck during a traditional ceremonial dance to open the 2005 Native American Journalists Association convention in this quintessential heartland city.

We were celebrating real Indian culture with real American Indians.

These were not the ridiculous mascots, caricatures and stereotypes that an army of universities, sports boosters, sports commentators, sports fans and network broadcasters have been defending with unbridled vigor and vehemence."

Get the Story:
Editorial: Ruling small victory for American Indians (The Baxter Bulletin 8/17)

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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