"The indigenous people of North America historically have been and still are highly affected by racism and stereotyping. I define racism as the existence of beliefs, attitudes, institutional arrangements and acts that tend to denigrate individuals or groups because of their darker skin characteristics or ethnic group affiliation.

Racism continues to have a major impact on American Indians today. Racism and stereotyping still exist, despite UND's effort to work with the Native community and Native student enrollment.

The point is, racism is alive and well."

Get the Story:
Michael Eshkibok: Racial stereotypes are wrong, period (The Grand Forks Herald 10/16)

NCAA Decision:
Statement by NCAA Senior Vice-President for Governance and Membership Bernard Franklin on University of North Dakota Review(September 28, 2005)

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

Relevant Links:
University of North Dakota - http://www.und.edu
The Ralph - http://www.theralph.com
Fighting Sioux - http://www.fightingsioux.com
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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