1984 “I realize it’s not the end of stereotypes in sports, but I think it was really important that a federal commission get involved and make a statement to move our country toward more equality and social justice." - Cyd Crue
Group calls for end of Indian names U.S. Commission on Civil Rights says nicknames might violate laws by Greg Toppo April 16, 1984 Indiana Gazette Washington – American Indian activists cheered a federal civil rights panel’s call .. for an end to Indian team names and mascots at non-Indian schools, colleges and universities. The recommendation by the U.S. Commission on Civil Rights does not carry the weight of law, but activists saw it as an endorsement of their efforts. “This is a great day,” said Charlene Teters, a member of the Spokane Nation. Her protests at the University of Illinois in the late 1980s and early 1990s helped spark a national debate over Indian sports names and mascots. The university’s teams are still called the Illini, named for an old Midwest Indian confederation, and its mascot is still Chief Illiniwek. Teters and others said the commission statement could persuade schools to take another look at their Indian nicknames and