I posted about the State of Maine banning American Indian mascots entirely, in name and symbol. Apparently this is the first state to do so, following California's partial ban that targeted the name Redskins exclusively.
Following this event, a middle school in Ohio is also contemplating a name change. While this is not that eventful on its own, I think the coverage is interesting. The masthead above has the link (click it). Also, linked here....
The school appears to be moving in the right direction, but, like with all institutions fearing public backlash, they're being cautious and seeking public opinion first by survey. Apparently majority consensus determines wrong or right. Imagine Lincoln issuing a survey before signing the Emancipation Proclamation.
The story tries to show both sides of the issue. Predictably, the reasons for keeping the mascot are limited to tradition, keeping it "just for the memories". Nostalgia isn't a reason to even have a mascot to begin with. Keep in mind, this particular story involves a middle school, not a high school or university, or professional club.
There are younger people interviewed expressing need for change, and of course, older people who want the mascot to stay. All people interviewed are beyond Middle School age, by the way, and one woman is 71 years old. I wonder what actual middle school students think about the issue. I know, it's a crazy idea, asking the group most affected by this symbol (even if they're affected at all).
Hopefully, the White Oak middle school, and the City of Cincinnati will do the right thing.
Some ideas for the future....
Cincinnati has several nicknames, some more old school than others. But... Queen City, Blue Chip City, and Porkopolis can lend themselves to some pretty cool mascot ideas.
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| School Mascots derived from Porkopolis would be the most fun https://www.designevo.com/create/logos/pig.html |
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