Opinion
Seminole Lawyer: Tribes should work with mascots


"As a member of the Seminole Tribe of Florida, I believe the N.C.A.A. should encourage those colleges that have Indian mascots and nicknames to build better relations with the Native American community. Perhaps each university could establish a relationship with a reservation, involving programs like internships, scholarships and tribal history and culture classes.

Here in Florida, the relationship we have with Florida State goes beyond the football field. Florida State encourages members of the Seminole Tribe to apply for admission and spreads information about Seminole culture and history.

For all these reasons and more, our five-member Tribal Council voted unanimously to support the university in its efforts to keep the Seminole name. It's a shame that other colleges and tribes aren't finding a way to make similar accommodations."

Get the Story:
Jim Shore: Play With Our Name (The New York Times 8/27)
pwnyt

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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