Babaamaajimowinan (Telling of news in different places)

Bill with ban on Native American nicknames in Minnesota headed to governor's desk

WARROAD, Minn. — A proposed ban on the use of Native American nicknames and mascots in Minnesota public school districts is inching closer to becoming law after the Minnesota House and Senate approved a version of the education spending and policy bill containing the policy. Throughout the legislative session, the proposed ban has caused concern in Warroad, Minnesota, where the school district uses the “Warroad Warriors” nickname.

On Tuesday, May 16, the Minnesota House passed House Bill 2497, followed by the Senate early on Wednesday morning, May 17. In the House, it passed along party lines, 70-62, and in the Senate, it passed 35-32. Included in the $2.2 billion bill is a prohibition on the use and adoption of a name, symbol or image depicting Native American people or traditions to be used as a mascot, nickname, logo, letterhead or team name of a school district.

The prohibition does not apply to schools located within one of the reservations of the federally recognized tribal nations in Minnesota where 95% of students are American Indian.

https://www.bemidjipioneer.com/news/minnesota/bill-with-ban-on-native-american-nicknames-in-minnesota-headed-to-governors-desk

 

Reader Comments(0)

 
 
Rendered 03/27/2024 10:18