Tell SEMO about mascot

To the editor:

Those who are opposed to Southeast Missouri State University changing its mascot need to make your voices heard. A committee appointed by the board of regents has a Web site (http://www2.semo.edu/urelations/mascot/) at which suggestions for the new name and mascot are being solicited.

The Web site states that a number or organizations associated with the university have recommended that the mascot of the university be retired. If you agree, there's no problem. If you don't, then you might want to make sure that any organization that you belong to has not misrepresented you.

According to the Web site, the alumni association and booster club supports this movement. It's difficult for me to believe that the majority of the boosters and alumni support the change.

Some say it's disrespectful to the American Indians for SEMO to use the Indian mascot. When did it become disrespectful to be a mascot? It used to be an honor. During the selection of the new mascot, suggestions will be made to bring attention and honor to an area feature, movement or organization. Suggestions will not be made in an effort to bring shame. The same was true when the Indian was chosen.

If you agree that the mascot of our university should change, go to the Web site and make a suggestion. If you disagree, make that opinion known as well. You might bring the issue up the next time you're contacted for a donation.

STAN CRADER

Marble Hill, Mo.