I was driving across Arizona and came upon a school with prompted me to write a quick letter
and place it in the mailbox.
To Whom It May Concern at Red Mesa High School,
Hello. I was traveling across Arizona with my family and I noticed your High School on the side of the road. I couldn’t help notice that your mascot is the “Redskins”. I just wanted to let you know that many people think this word is offensive to Native Americans. Yes, I know there is a professional football team that is already named the Redskins, but they have been around for a long time. Please consider changing your name to something less offensive.
Thank you,
Richard Spall
A few weeks later I received:
Dear sir,
Thank you for letter. You are right. Washington Redskins offensive. Be less offensive if not stink. I ask around here. Many people round here long time, too. Native American OK with name. High School name stay.
Thanks,
Principal Standing Bear
Red Mesa High School
Navajo Nation
PS – Thanks visiting Navajo Nation from Arizona
That’s irony for you!!!!
HA HA! I guess the Navajo only want successful Redskins to bear their name. I sort of don’t blame them. Unless the Washington Redskins can make a comeback, I think they do a disservice to the Navajo and other tribes. Very funny!