"Schools should be able to use Native American names and mascots as long as they are respectful to the tribes they represent.

The Wisconsin State Assembly recently signaled support for a bill that would limit the use of Native American names and mascots, the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel reports.

The bill would allow residents to complain about potentially racist mascots, and schools would either have to defend the mascot or stop using it within a year.

The bill allows Native American mascots to be used as long as the tribe it represents approves its use and design.

Allowing Native American tribes to have a say in the mascot decision is a responsible and respectful part of this bill.

In an area that has a long Native American heritage, some of the mascots can promote the history of a town."

Get the Story:
Editorial: Native American mascots can be OK (The University of Wisconsin Spectator 3/4)

Related Stories:
Opinion: Offensive mascots hurt learning environment (3/1)
Wisconsin Assembly backs bill against Indian mascots (2/26)
Editorial: Potawatomi leader supports school's mascot (2/25)
GOP lawmaker delays Indian mascot bill in Wisconsin (2/24)