In Opposition to Native American Mascots

WHEREAS, the National NAACP is committed to caring for and affirming the gifts of all people with special regard to those oppressed or disenfranchised on the basis of race, national origin, and cultural origin; and

WHEREAS, the use of Native American people, images, symbols, and cultural and religious traditions as sports names, logos and mascots perpetuates racist stereotypes and undermines the self-determination and dignity of Native American people; and

WHEREAS, the National NAACP, as a nationally and internationally recognized protector of civil and human rights, is in the unique position to impact public and corporate policies and practices.

THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the National NAACP call upon all members and friends to refrain from purchasing items with Native American sports team logos and cross out such logos on merchandise already in their possession; and

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that the National NAACP call upon member Branches and State Conferences to inform themselves of and support local efforts to eliminate the use of Native American people, images, symbols, and cultural and religious traditions as sports names, logos and mascots; and

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that the National NAACP call upon all professional sports teams and public and private schools and universities currently using such names and images to reject the use of Native Americans and all historically oppressed people and their cultural traditions, as sports mascots and symbols and affirm their commitment to respect racial and cultural inclusion in all aspects of their institutions; and

THEREFORE, BE IT FINALLY RESOLVED, that the Convention re-affirm the previous policy of the NAACP adopted in 1992 on "Indian Sports Team Mascots and Names."