School Votes Out Its Indian Mascot Principal Says Political Motivation To Change Was Minimal

Lowell Scott Middle School has joined the ranks of schools and colleges nationally that have eliminated American Indian mascots.

Lowell Scott has used the Indians as its sports nickname since 1972. But Meridian School Board members approved changing the nickname to the Chargers on Monday after more than a semester of study at the school.

A majority of students voted to change, choosing the Chargers narrowly over the Knights and the Huskies.

“It’s a lot more classy and exciting than our former mascot,” Principal Karen Ritchie said. “The political motivation was minimal. We just wanted something that would put the emphasis on the future.”

American Indian groups nationally have objected to using Indian-related characters and names for sports team mascots. The Washington Redskins and Atlanta Braves have been at the center of the controversy.

While professional teams have kept their mascots, some colleges and public schools in several states have dumped Indian mascots. In Wisconsin and Minnesota, education officials have asked schools to get away from names such as the Chiefs, Warriors and Braves.

But locally, the oldest high schools in the Boise and Meridian school districts continue to use Indian mascots. The Boise High Braves and Meridian High Warriors have been around for decades, drawing loyalty from alumni.

Bitsy White Quinn, an active member of the Boise High Alumni Association, said she would be “very disturbed” if the school ever changed its mascot. The Braves appropriately reflects Boise’s historical place in the American West, she said.

“It’s not a derogatory thing. We are the Braves,” she said. “I think it’s an honor if you have a team named after you.”

But Suzan Harjo of the Morning Star Institute said having Indian terms used for sports teams is not an honor. Morning Star is a Washington, D.C., organization that promotes Indians’ cultural rights.

Harjo said the names are offensive because they trivialize Indian culture and set the stage for opposing teams to demean Indian people.

Lowell Scott’s decision does not affect other Meridian schools. Lake Hazel and Meridian middle schools also have Indian nicknames. But Meridian High Principal Terry Kluever said the school would take a look at the Warrior mascot when school reopens.

“I would want to investigate the feelings of my students, parents and my massive alumni community,” she said. “I think everyone’s opinions need to be respected …”