The governor is ready to sign the Indian mascot bill.
It’s been a hot issue for a long time — whether Wisconsin public schools should continue using Native American mascots, team names and logos.
“I think Native American people legitimately have a beef, at times, with what mascots are and how they’re depicted.”
Governor Jim Doyle believes not all mascots are discriminatory, although some do perpetuate Indian stereotypes.
Doyle says if it’s used with pride, a local tribe agrees with its use, and it has educational value, then let it be.
The measure (SB-25) would require that the Wisconsin Department of Public Instruction investigate complaints about Indian names, logos or mascots. If the state superintendent agrees with the complaint, the district must end usage within a year, or face fines of up to $1,000 a day.
Jackie Johnson report 1:16