Following a unanimous decision yesterday, the North Dakota State Board of Higher Education directed the University of North Dakota to terminate use of the “Sioux” nickname and logo by it athletic teams.
The board directs UND to retire the nickname and logo, effective Oct. 1, 2009. Full retirement of the nickname and logo will be completed no later than Aug. 1, 2010.
“We are mindful that there is a nearly 80-year tradition with our nickname and related logos. We honor that tradition, which has brought us national honor and distinction, as well as national championships and an outstanding record of student athletes as scholars. I want to be clear that I believe our athletes and our athletic teams — athletic directors, coaches and related staff — have used the nickname and logo with great honor and respect, and with a tremendous sense of pride,” wrote Robert O. Kelley, UND’s president, in a letter published after the board’s decision.
The decision was cause for applause for many who oppose the use of Native American names and imagery in sports.
David Gipp, a UND graduate and president of United Tribes Technical College in Bismarck, told the Grand Forks Herald that he was not sure of the board’s motivation — whether it was about the membership status of UND teams or human dignity and the institutional and educational values — but he commended its decision.
“As I have said before, letting go of the nickname and logo will lead to a better higher educational system in North Dakota — one that all of the state’s citizens can begin to take part in with pride,” he told the Herald.
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