"The Standing Rock Sioux Reservation has several schools that use Indian nicknames. These schools are attended by both Indian and non-Indian students. These schools are proud of their Indian nicknames and will support them forever.

During sporting events at Standing Rock, visiting teams respect the team with the Indian nicknames just as much as the team with a non-Indian nickname.

Yes, the other team does root against you. Yes, there are fans who like one team and not the other. Yes, some people get mad about winning and losing, but no one ever blames the school nickname.

If tribal governments were to vote against the use of the Sioux nickname, they would be voting against tribal members of the past and present. The beauty of the regalia used by UND in sports clearly shows respect for Sioux people. Take a look at our clothing, hats, homes and cars. We clearly love the use of Indian logos and symbols.

Finally, it would be a much greater thing if the NCAA would reverse its decision regarding the Sioux nickname. The NCAA should be supporting its schools rather than burdening them."

Get the Story:
Tom Iron:NCAA should reverse nickname decision (The Grand Forks Herald 11/23)
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