Mascots matter of tradition, not racism

In today's world you are surrounded by a community of sensitive human beings. From hearing how the world used to be, to how it has changed over time is sort of sad. One thing I did not want to see fall into the category of soft and people overly obsessed with political correctness, is sports, but unfortunately my hopes were crushed. Sure, there have been arguments over mascots throughout the years, but the Cleveland Indians actually followed through and are changing their mascot. Some say it's a stepping stone towards remedying discrimination against indigenous peoples, but others like me believe it's stupid.

All I ever had hoped for in the sports world was that sports would stay traditional. Well, like I said, the Indians actually ruined that hope for me. While I understand some things being considered offensive I do not believe this is one of them. In no way is the title “Cleveland Indians” and their logo “Chief Wahoo” racist. I only say that because the logo has been with the organization since 1947. That means they have had the Chief on their uniforms for 71 years. I can't quite grasp why or how this claim has came to be. If something has been in tact for 71 years, why listen to people now and change it?

This is not the only time a controversy has struck up about mascots in sports; it's actually dated back to the 1960’s with the NFL's Redskins. The Redskins have been in this battle for 58 years and they have yet to crack. I believe they realize that nothing is wrong with it, and it's just a name in the end. The Indians owner and an MLB commissioner claim they are all about culture, but my only thought on that is what's the deal with all the other teams who have mascots that people could say are offensive? They aren't complaining or crying about it, so why should you? There are even teams in the NHL and NFL who just let people say what they want but they don't take it literally. The fact the organization is actually going forward and taking away their logo and mascot disheartens me. I am hoping no other team or manager or club owner falls into the temptation presented by soft human beings.

While interviewing a few people whom I know are sport fans, I was given a few recurring answers, but also had some mixed views about the situation. “I think it's stupid," said Mike A., a student at AHS. “It's been a part of their program so long why would you change now just because of some opinion?”

Justin A., another AHS student, agrees with the statement made by Mike A. He also added, “I would take pride in the name. Not every team gets a unique mascot who has been part of history, if I was an Indian and I had an organization repping who I am, I would be proud.”

On the other hand I was given this opinion, “Even though the logo can be classified as offensive I believe the logo and the name should not change,” said Keith W. He also adds, “It's like Newberry College changing from the Indians to the Wolves. It shouldn't have happened.”

After all is said and done, I believe people overreact when it comes to this topic. It is just a mascot who a team reps on their gear, and fans cheer for. My belief is “if it ain't broke, don't fix it,” which is why if you really take a look not one thing is wrong with the names, quit being so soft and concerned with other people and keep on keeping on. In today's world everyone will be offended by something, and all I can hope is keep drama out of sports for now on and stop being so dang soft.