Letters - Sioux logo is racist and offensive
From Wambdi A. Wastewin
As winter approaches, my mind turns to the memorials my People will be
having. We will be remembering the 38 Dakota warriors hung in the largest
mass execution in the history of United States on Dec. 26, 1862 in
Mankato, Minn. We will also be remembering those massacred at Wounded Knee
on Dec. 29th, 1890 by the United States Cavalry. As we remember our slain
ancestors, I think it is fitting to once again remind the UND campus that
the logo/mascot is racist and offensive and does not do justice to the
history of our People. I am Sisseton-Wahpeton Sioux (Dakota) and my
ancestors only took up arms when it was necessary to protect the women and
children and return to the hunting grounds when the government rations did
not arrive as promised. You do not honor us with your use of the 'Fighting
Sioux' moniker, rather you mock the true character of who we are and what
we stood for. Once again, I ask this university to change the logo and to
pick something that we can all rally behind in the name of student
athletics.
Wambdi A. Wastewin
Sisseton-Wahpeton Dakota Sioux
UND Law School Class of 1998