ahawk chop," a sign that means kill and maim, thinking that it is a good thing. It is not an honor." Tim Giago clearly expresses his view on the Atlanta Braves tomahawk chop. Americans many not understand what message they are relaying while doing this chop, but that still gives them no right to use the name of a Native American Indian name. "Washington Redskins, Cleveland Indians, Atlanta Braves -- Indian mascots and nicknames have historically been first draft picks in American sports. But for Charlene Teters, a Spokane Indian, transplanting cultural rituals onto the court is a symbol of disrespect. Jay Rosenstein follows Teters' evolution from mother and student into a leading voice against the merchandising of Native American sacred symbols -- and shows the lengths to which fans will go to preserve their mascots." In keeping all the Native American Mascots in schools, colleges, and professional sports teams we are showing a lack of respect. The Native Americans have voiced the lack of honor these names are bringing to them. "The fact that history has ignored the incredible pain we have inflicted on Native Americans does not now give us the right to ignore their largely muted call." Americans need to take a step back think about how they would feel if there ritual and or sacred tradition was misused. "We feel that we are being put in a position of sacrificing our dignity and pride and will never be treated as equals in white society as long as the use of Indian symbols continues."...
