Misty Perkins: High school in Oregon disparages tribal cultures

Scappoose means ‘gravel plains’ and was not home to one tribe, but was a trading ground for many tribes across the Pacific Northwest. As the German settlers flooded the area, so began genocide for all indigenous peoples.

Columbia County was known for the mass murders and daily hangings of Native men, women and children. This was a public spectacle, and white people were encouraged to attend them as some sort of show. I like to call them, the original Scappoose ‘pep rallies.’

Furthermore, as I am a member of Plains tribes, I can tell you that the nations who lived here never wore headdresses or loincloths like this beloved mascot would lead you to believe. Anyone from this area knows the weather just won't permit it. The traditional garb or regalia of the people of this region looked nothing like this. The people here would all know that if the education system had actually educated them on the lands history.

So not only are they perpetuating the stereotypes that generalize us all the same, the school is degrading the Plains tribe’s tradition and culture. And you are literally erasing the actual culture and history of the people who were murdered on this land so the locals could all be here today.