Need to rethink use of "Red Raider"
To the editor:
I am a Spaulding High School counselor and adviser to the Human Rights Club. I refuse to wear clothing with the Red Raider logo. I find the use of Native American mascots and symbols to be offensive. I was taught to treat all heritages, cultures, races, and religions with respect and dignity. I choose to not take part in cultural insensitivity. I do buy shirts with the "clock tower" because I support our teams.
I have lived in Rochester. I have lived with the Lakota tribal people and with multi-tribal people in New Hampshire and Maine. In conversations, it comes to my attention that Indians are aware of the sports teams that use Native American symbols. Folks tell me how offensive and harmful this is. I don't think the Red Raider logo was designed to be derogatory, but through ignorance, this stereotyping has led to a misrepresentation of a culture.
As an adviser, I am disturbed by this reference. It sends an improper message to all about the true nature and spirit of being of Native American heritage. In our club we talk about diversity and tolerance. The subject of the Red Raiders has come up and many of the students are confused. This is a passionate subject, especially if you are a person who participates in a sport. The interesting thing is that the students have taken part in discussions and rethinking the issue. If these students can handle the discussions, I would think that educators and community people could get together to hear all sides and continue to discuss, learn, and do research.
I feel it is everyone's responsibility to teach our young people tolerance and to eliminate racism. Since this is a school issue, we as adults and educators need to help students unlearn stereotypes and learn positive values, attitudes, and perceptions.
It takes courage to relearn old habits and change feelings. I hope in the spirit of tolerance and social justice, people of Rochester will come together to learn and continue the discussion about this issue.
Judy Cohen
Rochester
