EDITORIAL: It's a question of dignity
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Change is a constant in our lives and we have to learn to adapt to it. Now is the time for IVCC to adapt to the 21st century. Now is the time to change the name of our college mascot, the Apache.
This name was originally picked, more than 50 years ago, because it seemed to imply fierceness, a stereotype of Indians, specifically Apaches. For how long do we intend to live in the past and keep this stereotype?
Shouldn’t we be more respectful and less “fierce”?
As the name has come under attack in recent years, people who have resisted change have claimed the name honors Native Americans. Yet Native American groups and the U.S. Commission on Civil Rights have been calling for an end to Indian team names.
There are people who may be offended by our mascot’s name and, just because of that “may be,” we have to change it. We agree with the SGA’s recommendation that the college should find a more appropriate mascot. (See story on page one)
Let’s find a new name and avoid having to say we are sorry.
Since the college says it honors diversity and being respectful, IVCC has to get rid of the name. And even if the college doesn’t, the Apache staff will replace the name of this newspaper -- this year. We intend to have a contest and offer a cash prize. The newspaper editorial staff will pick the winner. We’ll provide details later.
It is not only time for a change, it is past time for a change.
It’s a question of dignity.