Opinion

Letter: 'Indian' mascots hurt Indian students

Thursday, March 27, 2008

"Steve Fool Bear is apparently not aware of the reason that the American Psychological Association and the American Sociological Association are both calling for the elimination of “Indian” logos and nicknames in educational institutions nationwide.

The call for change is based on empirical evidence showing that race-based Indian mascot imagery has a harmful effect on the self esteem of American Indian children. Dr. Stephanie Fryberg’s doctoral research at Stanford University conclusively shows that:

- American Indian students experience harm to their self-esteem when exposed to these stereotypes.

- Harm occurs whether the stereotype is an attractive noble-looking depiction or a grotesque cartoon.

- American Indian students who approve of the use of “Indian” nicknames and logos experience more psychological harm than students who oppose the use of such symbols.

- European-American students exposed to these same “Indian” images experience a boost to their self-esteem.

The Fryberg research underlies the APA and ASA resolutions and justifications calling for change."

Get the Story:
Barbara Munson: Indian nicknames may hurt at tribal schools, too [first item] (The Grand Forks Herald 3/27)
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Relevant Links:
University of North Dakota - http://www.und.edu
The Ralph - http://www.theralph.com
Fighting Sioux - http://www.fightingsioux.com