"For the most part, patently tasteless and racist nicknames such as Savages have faded away, yet we're still left, incredibly, with the NFL's Redskins.

Those who support such names argue that they celebrate proud heritage. Opponents say they only perpetuate patronizing, skin-deep, cartoonist attitudes.

"We believe hostile or abusive nicknames are troubling to us and it can't continue," says Walter Harrison, the NCAA committee chairman. "We're trying to send a message, very strongly, saying that these mascots are not appropriate for NCAA championships."

It is not easy to satisfy everyone in these matters. The NCAA, at least, deserves credit for tackling the issue head-on."

Get the Story:
Kudos to NCAA on its native initiative (The Toronto Star 8/22)

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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