Maybe Notre Dame should consult the Irish too.
And Minnesota should consult with the Norwegians.
And Miami should consult with Katrina ;)
Regarding Notre Dame and the Irish, there has been a long tradition to this name, with nary a peep from any organization which could speak on behalf of the Irish. At this time, Notre Dame has every right to use the name.
(I would say the same thing about other references to the ethnic heritages of our country, e.g., the Syracuse Orange and the University of Idaho Vandals.)
But, with regard to the name Fighting Sioux, the University of North Dakota got some kind of permission from the Spirit Lake Sioux to use the name, apparently in conjunction with promising something in return. Some members of the Tribe now want to call the deal off. They consider the name demeaning, or at least it's "demeaning" as long as the University doesn't come across with more money or other consideration.
Who would even want to deal with people like that?
There are many pro-American Indians in our country. They are among the most patriotic of our citizens. The percentage of their youth who serve in our military is very high. It is an honor to be associated with such people. But, with regard to those who have to be bribed into being associated with you, I wouldn't want to be associated with them.
I think the elders of the Spirit Lake Sioux should think very carefully about what their tribe may ask of the University of North Dakota, because they might get exactly what they want. We can, if they want, eradictate all un-American Indian names from our culture, and re-name things only after those people - original to this land or immigrant - who are proud to be associated with our country.