Nationwide, hundreds of schools and universities have eliminated their Indian mascots but three in southern California say their nicknames are a source of pride.

Some tribal leaders agree. Robert Smith, the chairman of the Pala Band of Mission Indians and a graduate of Fallbrook High School, says he doesn't understand why people would oppose the "Warriors" mascot and other Indian names.

"I can't see where it's coming from," he told The San Diego Union-Tribune. "I don't take any offense to it. When I was a high school athlete, we supported it because that's what we were."

The Viejas Band and Sycuan Band, both of the Kumeyaay Nation, have donated money to athletic programs at schools with Indian mascots, according to the paper.

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Tradition meets political correctness (The San Diego Union-Tribune 9/27)