Print

E-mail

Text

Re: 'West Hill Warriors name, logo under board review,' News, Oct. 29

When did the phrase 'political correctness' become deemed such a terrible term? It is frustrating to think that in this day and age people still assume there is no harm in using people's culture as the basis point for creating mascots.

I think what Mr. Varesh has failed to recognize is that images such as the 'Indian Head' (and the symbolism behind it) helps to reinforce stereotypes and biased attitudes towards the Anishnabe and other members of the various First Nations' communities.

We seem to confuse tradition with appropriateness, almost assuming that West Hill's ". . .strong work ethic, and a sense of pride" is based on the logo itself, rather than the efforts and contributions of the individuals that comprise the West Hill C.I. community. What makes this truly shameful is that many members of the West Hill community are of First Nations heritage.

What message is being conveyed to them from their own community?

As an elementary school teacher I have seen the impact stereotypical imagery has on young children and how they view themselves and others around them. The Toronto District School Board has embraced the importance of promoting character education within our school communities. Character traits such as 'respect' and 'acceptance' are concepts we try and instill within our students. By tolerating logos such as the 'warrior' logo we are tolerating racially demeaning stereotypes and continue to desensitize the population. Perhaps this is why other cultures are not represented in this fashion.

I hope Mr. Varesh can look beyond the history of the past and sees how it impacts the present.

Sean Gale