Free Republic

EARLIER this week, the National Collegiate Athletic Association reversed its recent decision that would have forced Florida State University to drop the use of the "Seminole" name and related symbols. But it continued to ban the use of Native American mascots and nicknames in postseason N.C.A.A. tournaments, a decision that affects 17 other universities. As a member of the Seminole Tribe of Florida, I believe the N.C.A.A. should encourage those colleges that have Indian mascots and nicknames to build better relations with the Native American community. Perhaps each university could establish a relationship with a reservation, involving programs like internships,...

There was never any doubt where the Seminole Tribe of Florida stood on Florida State University's nickname. The tribe helped university boosters create the costume for the Chief Osceola mascot, approving the face paint, flaming spear and Appaloosa horse that have no connection to Seminole history. Yesterday, the National Collegiate Athletic Association agreed with the 3,100-member tribe and the Seminole Nation of Oklahoma, which had also endorsed the nickname. The N.C.A.A. removed Florida State from the list of universities banned from using what it called "hostile and abusive" mascots and nicknames during postseason play. "The N.C.A.A. executive committee continues to...