More on Native American Nicknames

Marquette University has received a great deal of publicity for its recent decision to have an online vote to adopt a new nickname. You can vote here if you are a Marquette affiliate. The possibilities include the Blue and Gold, Golden Avalanche, Hilltoppers, Voyagers and Wolves. What was wrong with the old nickname?

From 1994-2004, the team was known as the Golden Eagles. In 2004, the school changed this to the Marquette Gold, but student and alumni reaction was so negative that the university made the decision to institute the voting process. The one nickname overwhelmingly supported: Warriors -- the school's nickname from 1954 to 1994. The problem with this name is that it references Native Americans, and a strong minority of advocates have made such nicknames all but off-limits. Even the NCAA has stepped in, beginning an investigation into all schools that have arguably Native American-based nicknames (Starkey, "Nicknames get crazy in college athletics," Pitt Trib-Review, 05/18/05).

Nevermind the fact that there have been "warriors" throughout history, and that the name does not have to represent Native Americans. Are Native American nicknames really a problem? As I noted last fall (9/28/04), 90 percent of Native Americans in this country do not find this practice offensive. Should a miniscule minority be able to dictate the policy of our country? It certainly we are moving in that direction.

Related Posts:
Group Sues Over Illinois Mascot (3/25)
Iowa's Ironic Policy (5/28/04)

Posted in: