The Native American Guardian’s Association (NAGA) celebrates the contributions of Native Americans to American life – including the 2022 spaceflight of the first Native American woman astronaut, U.S. Marine Colonel Nicole Aunapu Mann.
By Guy Page
A Native American organization has a message for a Vermont school stewed in controversy about the use of Native American names and symbols in the name of ethnic sensitivity: “Educate, not Eradicate.”
The Native American Guardian’s Association (NAGA), based in North Dakota, has congratulated the Green Mountain School Board for reinstating the “Chieftain” team name for Green Mountain High School in Chester.
NAGA wrote the school board to “congratulate you in reinstating the Chieftain name,” the May 22 letter states.
The NAGA website includes photos of Native Americans in ceremonial dress holding tribal and American flags at major sporting events, and a photo of the first Native American woman astronaut in space.
Critics of the use of the “Chieftain” name and symbol, including the school board members who resigned over the reinstatement of the name, say such use is a ‘cultural appropriation’ that dishonors native Americans.
But NAGA sees nothing wrong in identifying schools with Native American names and symbols. Quite the opposite, in fact.
“NAGA would like to help educate the community members on the numerous contributions and history of the Native American people your school was originally named for,” Dakota Sioux tribe member and NAGA President Eunice Davidson and Navajo tribe member and VP Crystal Tso wrote on behalf of the board of directors.
“NAGA’s mission is to preserve and protect the cultural name and heritage from eradication in the community and history. Not divide. ‘Educate, not Eradicate,” Davidson and Tso wrote.
The NAGA website includes photos of Native Americans in ceremonial dress holding tribal and American flags at major sporting events, and a photo of the first Native American woman astronaut in space.
Although NAGA approves the school-based use of Native American names and symbols for team names, etc., it takes exception to the term ‘mascot.’”
“The claim of equivalence between Native American iconic symbols and “mascot” is a ploy to trivialize our proud heritage. Isn’t it ironic that you use that term with our Native American imagery and iconic symbols?
“The ‘m’ word conjures up a furry Disney costumed individual which in no way is a respectful display of our culture and imagery. If we need to have a conversation on the Native American name or iconic symbols, let’s have that discussion:
- Native warriors are honored for their bravery, skill and fighting spirit.
- Native American tribes all use their imagery in similar manners (logos, branding, monikers).
- They inspire pride like a family crest.
- Being in the public eye is a positive reflection of our culture.
- Native imagery is a badge of honor that 90% of Native Americans support.”
Guy Page is publisher of the Vermont Daily Chronicle. Reprinted with permission.
Yup it’s ONLY the White LIBERALS who’s noses are so big they have to stick it in other peoples business who object. They are in a constant state of hate and have to project that hate on everyone. Despicable humans and the reason VT is a unaffordable cess pool now. Bravo to the NAGA for sticking up for themselves. Far too few do it now days.
Just another way to divide people in order to exercise control and power.
Imagine giving homage to the Native Americans and then being called out for ‘cultural appropriation’.
Everyone in my second grade class claimed to have some Indian heritage. Take spiritual ownership of who you are.
Don’t allow others to redefine your good intents and purposes. The only people offended are those who are trying to control you and your loved ones and there will be no end to it until you stop responding to unfounded demands and accusations.
I wish to thank NAGA for their response . I have felt the same. To give and respect different races cultures should be a good thing, should be taught. Respect in a very large part of native American culture.That is what the kids of 1971 were basing the name Chieftain with the the logo of native American head dress. We should of had a direct conversation with NAGA and other organizations to find a better way to support them with the intended honor. I do not feel wiping out all that native Americans stand for is good for any race or culture. Education, communication and understanding is what was and is needed for our race. The human race!