In a survey by Indian Country Today, 81 percent of respondents indicated use of American Indian names, symbols and mascots are predominantly offensive and deeply disparaging to Native Americans.

"Indian mascots, by today's standards, would be offensive to any other race if portrayed in a similar manner," wrote Fred Blue Fox, Sicangu Lakota. "Indian peoples are no different in regarding the depiction of eagle feathers, face paints and war objects such as tomahawks. These are all sacred to the people and therefore have no place in any sort of public display, let alone mascots."

Only 10 percent of respondents indicated use of American Indian mascots is a respectful gesture and predominantly honors Natives. Nine percent of respondents did not know if American Indian mascots either honored or offended Natives.

Mark Thornton, Cherokee, taking a position within the minority viewpoint, wrote, "It is my opinion that mascot and other uses of Native American tribe names, terms, etc …… causes the world to acknowledge and respect us. The use of these Native American names for our weapons systems, mascots, and products brings honor and recognition to Native Americans."

Seventy-five percent of respondents also believe use of American Indian names, symbols and mascots at non-Indian schools, colleges and universities should be in violation of anti-discrimination laws.

"It should be recognized there was a time when Black Americans were put through the same treatment as we face today," wrote Dan Townsend, Ojibway and Odawa. "However, their revolts toward society led to laws that forbid discrimination towards them, and opened a door to shine a light on Amerindians and Hispanics."

Twenty percent of respondents indicated that the use of American Indian mascots at non-Indian schools is not in violation of anti-discrimination laws while 5 percent did not know.

Seventy-three percent of respondents also indicated that American Indian mascots create a "hostile educational environment" for Native American students. Seventeen percent indicated that it did not create a "hostile educational environment" while 10 percent did not know.

Dan Webster, Seneca, commented, "I believe that as long as Native names, symbols, etc …… are used, the school should avoid using them in a non-stereotypical manner and should also get permission and/or advice in the use of the symbols of the tribes involved. As long as the school follows these basic guidelines, I don't think it would create a hostile educational environment for Native students."

Respondents also were asked if federal and state education funds should be withheld from schools that continue to use American Indian names, symbols and mascots. Sixty-nine percent indicated yes, 22 percent said no, and 9 percent did not know.