To the School Board's Special Services Committee,
I am writing this letter as a concerned individual, a Spaulding High School counselor, and as the advisor to the Human Rights Club of Spaulding High School.
I have worked as a counselor at Spaulding High School for twelve years and during those years refused to buy or wear any clothing with the "Red Raiders" logo. I find the use of Native American mascots and symbols to be offensive. I was taught by my parents to treat all heritages, cultures, races, and religions with respect and dignity. I therefore choose to not take part in such cultural insensitivity. I do buy our shirts with the "clock tower" on them, because I take pride in and want to support our teams. I have lived and worked with the Lakota tribal people and also with multi-tribal people in New Hampshire and Maine. In conversation with these folks, it came to my attention that they were extremely aware of the many sports teams and schools that use Native American symbols and spoke with me about how offensive and harmful this was to them. I do not think the Red Raider logo was designed to be derogatory, but through ignorance, this stereotyping has led to a misrepresentation of a culture.
As the advisor to the Human Rights Club, I am disturbed by this reference. It sends an improper message to our students and staff about the true nature and spirit of being of Native American heritage. I find it embarrassing that this stereotyping is promoted within our public school. That this is so widely accepted is a dangerous lesson to pass on to students. In our club, we talk about diversity and tolerance and we feel this symbol is a false portrayal and may encourage bias and prejudice. I feel that the Human Rights Club has a responsibility to maintain high ethics and we are here to help eliminate racism.
Let's please stop making a mockery of our indigenous cultures. We, as educators, need to help students unlearn stereotypes and learn more positive values, attitudes, and perceptions.
It takes courage to stand up for what I believe and I hope that in the spirit of tolerance and social justice, you will agree with me.
In Peace
Judy Cohen
[Read by me at April 11 Committee meeting on behalf of Judy Cohen.]
