"Sean, KY," 3/31/2005

(Chief opinion: VeryFor)

I'm a Cleveland Indians fan and have been my whole life. I've never heard a Native American complain about the name. I've only heard about these types of complaints through the media or internet sites. If one person complains they make it seem like the entire Native American culture is upset about these types of mascots and team names/logos. In no way are these mascots/names insulting to Native Americans. No ill feelings are driven behind these names. If you're going to get rid of them, then I guess we should get rid all names/mascots such as the demons, devils, and similar names because they are offensive to satan worshipers or a christian, however you look at it. Or maybe do away with the New England Patriots and the Houston Texans because they're offensive to people from Texas, or all Americans. I mean seriously, we don't use any team name/mascot to mock a certain race or people. Team names and mascots are used with pride. If they're comical or not, it doesn't matter. Native Americans, blacks, whites, hispanics, it doesn't matter, being comical isn't degrading, it's just comedy and people like to laugh and that is just part of the experience of going to a college/pro sporting event. As a devoted sports fan and a very experienced collegiate fan/student I know how people and fans feel about their teams. In no way is your arguement valid to me. If a Native American feels insulted, i'm sorry, but you shouldn't because no one thinks about your race that way because of a mascot or team name. So I will continue to cheer for and root on my Indians and will keep chanting Go Tribe Go and let the Native Americans know that they have nothing to be upset about because I cheer for them with pride and love. Thank you.

"Sean, KY," via the web.