School Board Approves Recommending Legislation Related to Native American Mascots

 

Whereas the continued use of Native American mascots, symbols, images, logos and nicknames undermines the educational experiences of members of all communities;

 

Whereas the continued use of Native American mascots, symbols, images, logos and nicknames teaches non-Native American children that it is acceptable to engage in culturally abusive behavior and perpetuate inaccurate misconceptions about Native American people, culture, history, sovereignty, government, customs and traditions;

 

Whereas the continued use of Native American mascots, symbols, images, logos and nicknames establishes an unwelcome, divisive and hostile learning environment for Native American students that affirms negative stereotypes that are promoted in mainstream society;

 

Whereas the continued use of Native American mascots, symbols, images, logos and nicknames is an offensive and intolerable practice to Native American Tribal Nations that must be eradicated;

 

Whereas the continued use of Native American mascots, symbols, images, logos and nicknames has a negative impact on other communities by allowing for the perpetuation of stereotypes and stigmatization of another cultural group; and

 

Whereas the continued use of Native American mascots, symbols, images, logos and nicknames undermines the ability of Native American Tribal Nations to portray respectful and accurate images of their history, culture, government, sovereignty, customs and traditions; and

 

Whereas in 2005, the American Psychological Association called for immediate retirement of Native American mascots, symbols and images because of the harm caused to the social identity development and self-esteem of Native American students and because non-Native American students witness perpetuation of derogatory stereotypes; and

 

Whereas continued use of Native American mascots, symbols, images, logos and nicknames does not empower Native American students towards academic achievement and success; and

 

Whereas Wisconsin is comprised of 421 public school districts and approximately 31 districts retain use of Native American mascots, symbols, images, logos or nicknames; and

 

Whereas Wisconsin recognizes the importance of education regarding the eleven (11) federally-recognized tribes in Wisconsin through Act 31, but Wisconsin Association of School Boards and Wisconsin Department of Public Instruction report most school districts do not fully comply with Act 31 requirements;

 

Now, therefore BE IT RESOLVED the WASB supports legislation requiring schools districts to retire Native American mascots. Rationale: 

• Wausau School District has Native and non-Native students who transfer to/from districts with these offensive mascots, symbols, images, logos and nicknames.
• Wausau School District students may be exposed to Native American mascots, symbols, images, logos and nicknames at athletic or scholastic events.
• Continued use of Native American mascots, symbols, images, logs and nicknames is a form of discrimination, oppression and racism.