(Spirit Lake)– Controversy over the Spirit Lake indian mascot and nickname was raised another level Monday as the school board hosted a public hearing on whether or not it should be changed to something different. Over one hundred people attended the hearing in the Middle School Music Room.
The arguments remained constant on both sides, with those in favor saying it actually pays homage to native americans and that it reflects on this area’s history and heritage. Those who opposed the indian nickname and mascot say their research has found it’s actually offensive and should be changed.
John Tonsfeldt says he’s concerned over how the issue is being portrayed to students. He says it should be done in a fair and balanced way. He says it’s clear that most who pay the bills of the Spirit Lake School District are in favor of keeping the indian mascot.
Chuck Rizutti, a retired Spirit Lake teacher and coach, says keeping the mascot because that’s what the majority wants isn’t right. He says he used to use the nickname and indian regalia on clothing and hats with little thought. Rizutti says that’s changed now that he’s done some research.
Terry Heidebrink of Spirit Lake spoke in favor of keeping the indian mascot, saying it’s a part of the community’s past and heritage. He says he knows of no law that’s being broken by Spirit Lake using the indian mascot and nickname. Heidebrink says changing the mascot and nickname will be very costly. He says that money could better be spent on educational programs and staff, saying the additional cost comes at a very difficult time financially for the district.
But Chuck Reed says it would be worth it to make the change to avoid any possibility at all of racial discrimination.
The Spirit Lake school board will take formal action on the mascot issue at their May 8th meeting.
The Spirit Lake school board will take formal action on the mascot issue at their May 8th meeting.
