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Opinion: What do Sioux tribes win in UND fight?
Monday, December 17, 2007
Filed Under: Opinion

"My impression is that some American Indian leaders in North Dakota feel empowered by the control they have been given over the issue of the UND Sioux nickname and logo. It appears to be a symbolic issue in which they have power and control over a white institution. They assert that the use of the UND Sioux nickname and logo is hurtful, humiliating and oppressive. What saddens me is that I can not imagine how they think removal of the UND Sioux nickname and logo will help them as a people.

UND has an amazing number of programs designed specifically to improve the lives of American Indians. If UND adopts a new nickname and logo, how will that affect these programs?

My question is, what will satisfy the American Indian leaders in North Dakota? Of course, Dakota itself is an Indian name. Many towns in North Dakota and Minnesota have names with an Indian origin. Many American Indians consider the Bison a sacred animal. Will that nickname and logo be under attack next?

I believe the tribal leaders feel empowered, having been powerless in so many ways. Racism of any kind is a fundamental evil. Ignorant people will continue to mistreat others long after the UND Sioux nickname and logo are history. The tribal leaders may win this battle, but what about the struggle to preserve their people and culture?"

Get the Story:
Monty G. Mertz: Sioux logo ‘win’ would change little (The Fargo Forum 12/16)
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Relevant Links:
University of North Dakota - http://www.und.edu
The Ralph - http://www.theralph.com
Fighting Sioux - http://www.fightingsioux.com

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