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NCAA News Release
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Statement By NCAA Senior Vice-President For Governance And Membership Bernard Franklin On Indiana University Of Pennsylvania Review
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For Immediate Release
Friday, November 18, 2005
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Contact(s)
Bob Williams
Managing Director of Public and Media Relations
317/917-6117
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"The NCAA staff review committee has retained Indiana University of Pennsylvania on the list of colleges and universities subject to restrictions on the use of Native American mascots, names and imagery at NCAA championships.
"In its review request, Indiana University of Pennsylvania contended that it should not be subject to the provisions of the policy because the nickname "Indians" resulted from historical factors, and the university's geographic location and heritage, none of which inherently represent or entertain an abusive or hostile environment. The university indicated that its nickname is derived from the university name, "Indiana University," as well as its location in the town and county of Indiana, Pennsylvania. Additionally, the university cited tradition as an element for consideration, noting that since 1928, the university�s athletics teams have been known as the Indians.
"In American culture, the term 'Indians' has traditionally invoked Native American meanings. The staff committee believes that even in the absence of specific imagery, the term would be construed as a stereotypical reference to Native Americans as opposed to a derivation of either the university�s name or the name of the town or county of Indiana, Pennsylvania. While the university�s rationale for the use of the nickname is not inherently hostile or abusive, and the university may not intend to malign Native Americans, the continued use of Native American references as nicknames, creates an environment over which an institution may not have full control. Fans, opponents, and others can and will exhibit behaviors that indeed are hostile or abusive to Native Americans.
"As noted in the materials submitted by the university, this issue has been the subject of significant study by various campus constituents for more than 15 years. In 1991, the university eliminated its Indian mascot but elected to retain the nickname "Indians." Since 1989 there have been at least three campus-wide groups that have recommended elimination of the nickname, the most recent of which was the 2002 Student Congress Nickname/Mascot Renaming Committee which explicitly called for removal of the nickname "Indians" as well as the mascot name "Cherokee."
"The review committee commends the university for taking steps in 1991, to eliminate its Native American mascot and for more recent actions related to the use of the tribal name 'Cherokee.' However, the Executive Committee's policy, and the staff review committee�s application of the policy have consistently held that good intentions and well-meaning efforts by schools cannot by themselves overcome the objection of those being characterized by such terms. Despite best efforts, the stereotyping of Native Americans into narrow images is an undeniable consequence of choosing such nicknames.
"The NCAA�s position on the use of Native American mascots, names and imagery has not changed, and the NCAA remains committed to ensuring an atmosphere of respect and sensitivity for all who participate in and attend our championships.
"Indiana University of Pennsylvania can file an appeal with the NCAA Executive Committee. This appeal must be submitted in writing. Requests for reviews from other institutions will be handled on a case-by-case basis in the order in which they are received."
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