“Cowboys finish off Redskins”
The use of Indian names by both college and professional sports teams has been criticized for many years. I’m sure many of you are aware of what has happened at the University of Illinois. To start with, read this article: redskins.pdf (“What’s in a Name?: A Historical Look at Native American-Related Nicknames and Symbols at Three U.S. Universities.”).
So, what’s the issue? This political cartoon succinctly summarizes what’s at stake:
The text states that “team names such as “Braves,” “Redskins,” and “Chiefs” are seen by many as demeaning, contributing to the perpetuation of the Indians’ image as savage and warlike” (Marger p. 156). On the other hand, many argue that this is harmless or even a way of honoring Native Americans. Which side do you agree with? Why or why not? What is your understanding of those Indian names? Does “redskins” mean people’s skin tone?
Have you had your high school sports teams using Indian names? If so, what were they? Are they still using the same names? If changed, when and how were those names changed?
How about team names using other ethnic groups, such as Notre Dame Fighting Irish or Minnesota Vikings? Are they demeaning too?
Say, consider a newspaper sports section headline, “Cowboys finish off Redskins!”
Does this convey anything more than one football team beats the other team? How valid is this Indian’s image as savage and warlike? Were Indians really like that in the confrontation with white settlers?
Finally, what is “cultural appropriation”? Is it different from cultural misappropriation? What are the most prominent examples of cultural (mis)appropriation? Would using Indian tribal names for sports teams be a fitting example here?
