Education
Saginaw Chippewa Tribe hopeful on NCAA appeal


The Saginaw Chippewa Tribe is hopeful the Central Michigan University "Chippewas" will gain an exemption from the NCAA's mascot policy, a spokesperson said.

Tribal spokesperson Joe Sowmick spoke to the NCAA by phone to discuss CMU's appeal. The tribe has passed several resolutions in support of "Chippewas."

Sowmick said the NCAA called to verify CMU's report on the nickname. He said the NCAA didn't give a timetable for a decision.

CMU is among four schools that have appealed their inclusion in a policy that bans Indian imagery during post-season tournaments. The Florida State University "Seminoles" have already won an exemption.

Get the Story:
Chippewa tribe voices concern over NCAA ban (Central Michigan Life 9/2)

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

Relevant Links:
Saginaw Chippewa Tribe - http://www.sagchip.org
Central Michigan University - http://www.cmich.edu
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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