Recent controversy over the racial offense over the Mascoutah High School mascot, the Indian, brings light to the topic of Native American culture. Instead of ridding of the mascot entirely I want to celebrate the culture instead. As a native a part of the student body I find the mascot to not be offensive and instead a proud symbol of my heritage. I want to petition to start a cultural appreciation day of native history, traditions, and culture. This day will help bring awareness to what the mascot itself stands for and will bring better understanding to the student body and a what the school spirit truly represents. 

A quick google search will show you that the town of Mascoutah is named after the “Mascoutens”, a native tribe that dwelt in Illinois long before the town itself. Not only is the High School dedicated to the memory of natives, but the entire town. Please research native history before trying to eradicate it fully! The intent of the town and the high school is to honor native history, not make a mockery of it.