"Native people are standing a little taller because Native nations in North Dakota stood up to the 'Fighting Sioux' team name and won the backing of the National Collegiate Athletic Association.

The NCAA announced on Sept. 28 that it will keep the University of North Dakota on its list of schools 'subject to restrictions on the use of Native American mascots, names and imagery at NCAA championships.'

This decision does not require the team name or symbols to be changed - only that they be kept out of sight in post-season games - but it brings Native nations in both North and South Dakota a giant step closer to their goal of retiring 'Fighting Sioux.'"

Get the Story:
Suzan Shown Harjo: Native dignity in North Dakota (Indian Country Today 9/29)

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