Native Stereotypes and Mascots Harm All of Us

We condemn the use of derogatory Native sports team names, mascots, symbols and gestures. Using these harmful stereotypes perpetuates a long history of uninformed depictions of Native Peoples and violence, as well as undermines the educational learning environment.  

Negative Health Impacts

The evidence of this harm from mascots is demonstrated by the high disparities in rates of violence against Native Peoples, and the poor statistics about the health and welfare of Native Peoples, including the highest rates of suicide for Native youth. In addition, studies about the effect of mascots on Native youth have specifically identified low self-esteem, low community worth, and increased negative feelings of stress and depression as negative psychological effects Native mascots wreak on the well-being of Native youth.

Change Mascots and Support Healing

Something so simple and easy as changing a mascot can result in tremendous healing and support kindness, tolerance and freedom for all of us.

We call on every institution with Native-themed sports team names, mascots, symbols and gestures to immediately end their use and work to understand the importance of Native Nations and Peoples to our country and our country’s future. 

Read our full statement. 

Additional Resources

• National Congress of American Indians: Ending the Era of Harmful Native “Themed” Mascots
• National School Mascot Tracking Database
• National Museum of the American Indian Webinar: Changing the Narrative About Native Americans

Support

Our education and advocacy work around changing racist mascots is dependent upon the generosity of our donors. Please consider supporting our work by making a donation.