Changing Your Mascot

The use of racial and sexist nicknames and mascots is a controversial subject. There needs to be an outright abolishment of these terms and sports names. While some of these mascots and nicknames may be deemed harmless or appropriate, the overwhelming majority of these types of nicknames and mascots are derogatory and should be abolished. The underlying negative tones associated with racial and sexist nicknames and mascots should overweigh any profits, moneys lost or hassle cause by the changing of terms or abolishment of names.

 

There are always exceptions to rules like the Florida State Seminoles and the University of Utah Utes, but do these names have a place in your elementary, middle and high schools. Kids are facing enough pressures without the need of negative imagery and socially unacceptable mascots and team names. Much of the research shows the negative impact of social imagery on children, but our schools are still allowing public programs to promote these images to our children. Your local data combined with national research should create a substantial argument for change.

 

Implementing change really is going to be a 3 step process:

1.    Rebranding your School Image

2.    Fundraising for Changes

3.    Launching your New Look

 

Involving your community and student body during this process is essential in getting commitment and making this a smooth process. Art and logo contests are a great idea to drive creativity, involve the community and embody an image that represents the community.