NSU: Report on Mascot Change Due Sept. 29

Northeastern State University was notified by the National Collegiate Athletic Association late Wednesday that the institution has until Sept. 29 to confirm plans to change the Redmen nickname to one that does not reference Native American culture.

In a letter to NSU President Dr. Larry Williams dated Sept. 20, Bernard W. Franklin, NCAA senior vice president for governance and membership, cited the NCAA's commitment to providing an environment at all championship events that is "free from hostile or abusive references to Native American culture," and reminded NSU that the Redmen nickname has "previously been determined to be hostile or abusive."

"Should the university decline to effect the change previously discussed, the NCAA will be forced to apply the Executive Committee policy regarding hosting and participating in NCAA championship events," Franklin said in the letter.

Just over a year ago, the NCAA Executive Committee adopted a policy governing the use of Native American nicknames, mascots, and imagery at NCAA championship events.

"During the past year, we have seen encouraging developments consistent with the policy and consistent with the NCAA constitution's commitment to civility and respect at championship events," Franklin wrote. "The one-year mark presents a good opportunity to review developments at individual institutions that are, or may be, impacted by the policy."

"To that end, it was my understanding that Northeastern State University intended to change its 'Redmen' nickname and transition to a nickname unrelated to Native American culture," he continued. "To date, however, we are unable to confirm that any nickname change has occurred at your institution. Please advise by Friday, September 29, regarding the status of the university's transition to a nickname that does not reference Native American culture."

Franklin ended the letter by stating, "The NCAA feels strongly about this issue and looks forward to reviewing Northeastern State's progress."

Williams said NSU will comply with the NCAA request by the date indicated in Franklin's letter.

In May, Williams announced plans to launch the search for a new mascot. Through Sept. 30, NSU will continue accepting suggestions online at www.nsuok.edu/mascot/. Voting on finalists will begin Oct. 13 during Homecoming 2006 and will be accepted through Oct. 30. Once the votes are tallied, NSU will initiate the process of developing a brand identity for the new nickname to be unveiled before the start of classes in Fall 2007.

"The idea that Native American mascots are offensive to some has been a growing reality for more than 30 years," Williams said. "NSU has gradually moved away from representing the Redmen name with American Indian caricatures and symbols. We have erased or eliminated University logos, sideline mascots, and crowd cheers such as the tomahawk chop that we have determined to be disrespectful and offensive to the American Indian culture that has been so important in the history and development of our University."

Williams also recognizes that for many, the loss of the Redmen mascot is an emotional issue as well.

"As someone who has been at Northeastern for almost a decade and identifies with the nickname Redmen, I regret the need to change what for many has been a lifelong tradition. At the same time, I sincerely hope that everyone will now become engaged in the process and help us create a new identity that will generate pride for the University community, its alumni, and students."