Bernard Franklin Imagery Quotations

The decision of a namesake sovereign tribe, regarding when and how its name and imagery can be used, must be respected even when others may not agree.

The staff review committee noted the unique relationship between the university and the Seminole Tribe of Florida as a significant factor. The decision of a namesake sovereign tribe, regarding when and how its name and imagery can be used, must be respected even when others may not agree.

This decision was made because it is not reasonable to cover up or remove all of the Native American imagery in the arena.

Although the University of North Dakota maintained that its logo and nickname are used with consummate respect, the position of the namesake tribes and those affected by the hostile or abusive environment that the nickname and logo create take precedence. The decision of a namesake sovereign tribe, regarding when and how its name and imagery can be used, must be respected even when others may not agree.

The issue of the logo mark ... that depicts a Native American in feathered headdress, adds to the use of Native American imagery that the broadest range of indigenous tribes and peoples find offensive and insulting.

This is a complex issue and the circumstances surrounding each institution's use of Native American mascots and imagery is different. Each review will be considered on the unique aspects and circumstances as it relates to the specific use and practice at that college or university.