Using a questionable interpretation of the First Amendment as political cover, Republican Gov. Scott Walker signed a bill last month that makes it much more difficult to stop Wisconsin high schools from using Native American mascots and images for their sports teams. The Legislature remains solidly in Republican hands and — due to Republican-drawn legislative district maps — will probably stay that way. So it’s unlikely people who are offended by the “Indians” or the “Chieftains” or the “Braves” can count on any relief from state lawmakers any time soon. But it might make sense for those opposed to race-based mascots to take their fight to a group with far more say over high school sports — especially since it’s a group that’s already expressed opposition of its own to such mascots. The Wisconsin Interscholastic Athletic Association, which runs state sporting tournaments, already has a policy against spectator behavior or displays that are offensive, including ones based on race and national origin. It doesn’t use team names on the scoreboard during state tournaments and keeps Native American logos out of tournament programs, said WIAA communications director Todd Clark.Get the Story:
Chris Rickert: For opponents of race-based mascots, WIAA a tempting target (The Wisconsin State Journal 1/5) Also Today:
Scott Walker signs bill making it harder to force schools to drop Indian nicknames (The Wisconsin State Journal 12/20)
Related Stories
Oneida Nation leader testifies against Wisconsin mascot bill (10/4)
Join the Conversation
