Date: 8/10/2020
The Reminder article (July 23rd) outlined proposed state legislation that would require Massachusetts schools to change mascots and logo's associated with Native Americans. Additionally another bill would also propose changing the state official seal and motto.
The issue has been relative to Agawam as Mayor William Sapelli has been questioned about removing the Native American logo which as Mr. Sapelli noted honors Agawam which was founded as a Native American community.
The controversy has been highlighted by the long standing issue to change the name of the Washington Redskins. What is never mentioned in the media is the naming of the Redskins was to honor their coach Lone Star Dietz, an American Sioux. Their team song, 'Hail to the Redskins" pays homage to the District of Columbia.
Expect the team mascots and logos issue to be further extended to many others that are perceived to be menacing, threating or offensive.
Rest assured others will be scrutinized including the Chiefs, Braves Pirates, Buccaneers, Pirates, Vikings, Titans and others. Let's not forget those that will find offense with animal mascots. Eagles, Lions, Bengals, and Dolphins.
Our state legislators are proposing legislation to regulate those schools with Native American mascots. Will it end there? Can we expect further mascot proposal changes? In our local community will the Longmeadow Lancers or the East Longmeadow Spartans be deemed offensive and in need of replacement?
Fran Bogdanowicz
Longmeadow
