[Ref in PA]

Having read the entire discussion, I thought I would add a couple of points (my opinion), some of which has been touched upon. Incidentally, it has been a good discussion.

As long as people are separated, defined, categorized into groups, there will be bias and prejudice against those groups. The "offenses" may be blatant and obvious, others will be subtle. Other offenses may be perceived by the group - a circumstance where no offense was intended yet offense was taken. It is a shame for people to purposefully give offense and it is a shame for people to take offense when none is intended. Intentional offense can be fought through education, laws, etc.

Unintentional offense is a grayer matter. Who gets to judge whether the action is really offensive? For example, my daughter can't stand to hear any sort of chewing noise, unless she is doing it also. To her, eating chips or popcorn in her presence is offensive, and we do that to irritate her. We chew with our mouths closed, we try to be respectful of her wishes. My wife and I think normal eating habits with minimal noise is acceptable, unfortunately my daughter does not. My point is that everyone has a different opinion as to what is offensive and many take offense when none is intended. How is the unintended offense fought? In my opinion, some education to the offender, but more importantly, the greater responsibility lies with the person or group perceiving the offense. Is the "offense" really a huge issue? What is offensive to one is not offensive to another. Who gets to "win" on the issue? If something bothers you, let the other person know, but at the same time and inward look must take place. Self esteem goes along way to getting beyond offenses. As said in song the greatest love of all is the love of self. I know I have been on the wrong side of prejudice and discrimination during my life. Some of it has been intentional and obvious. But, it is my personal philosophy not to let others determine my actions. I try always to act for myself and not react to the actions of others. Has it frustrated me? Yes. Has it got me down? Momentarily. Many things can be fought with a sound family environment where self esteem is developed. In my opinion, this is one of them. Yet, I know what I have gone through has not been as severe as others have experience.

In this case with the NCAA, some feel that school nicknames are offensive and degrading. Some feel that the schools mock things sacred to offended group. Others think the Indian tribes are being petty by taking offense. Who is right? It is a tough question and the NCAA has reacted by mandating certain actions. Some feel the NCAA has not gone far enough with their mandates while other feel that NCAA has overstepped their boundaries.

Now, for my opinion: If the actions of a group do not infringe upon the rights of another, then it should be legal. What right is being violated by a school adopting a nickname? We live in a country of freedoms and rights. I am unaware of any freedoms or rights of an Indian tribe being violated by these nicknames or mascots. Therefore, I think the issue is a silly one. Just my opinion.

[Edited by Ref in PA on Aug 11th, 2005 at 11:34 AM]