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JANUARY 30, 2001

The dispute over the "Fighting Sioux" nickname of the University of North Dakota is an emotional one, pitting alumni and at least one wealthy benefactor against Indian students, tribes, and others who say the name is demaning to Native Americans.

Negative incidents involving Indian students date back to the 1970s, when an Indian student was arrested for destroying snow sculptures built by fraternity and sorority members which mocked Native Americans. In the early 1990s, some students harrased Indian children who were on a homecoming parade float.

The most recent disagreements over funding by benefactor Ralph Engelstad and the state Board of Higher Education's sudden decision to keep the name haven't done much to resolve the issue.

Get the Story:
Indian logo, benefactor's gift clash in North Dakota (The Minneapolis Star Tribune 1/30)

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'Fighting Sioux' supporter tied to school funds (Indian U. 1/29)
'Fighting Sioux' discussion set (Indian U. 1/25)
Board won't reconsider 'Sioux' vote (Indian U. 1/26)