Colorado lawmakers propose bill to ban use of American Indian mascots for public schools, colleges
$25,000 monthly fine for schools that continue to use Amerian Indian mascots after June 1, 2022
Mayo Davison
and last updated 2021-02-25 15:11:15-05
COLORADO SPRINGS â The debate over American Indian mascots continues as Colorado lawmakers propose a bill to ban the use by public schools, charter schools, and universities.
SB21-116 would not only prohibit the use of American Indian mascots but impose a monthly $25,000 fine for schools that continue to use them past June 1, 2022, payable to the state education fund.
According to the legislation, the presence and use of American Indian mascots across the state creates an unsafe learning environment for American Indian students by having serious negative impacts on those student's mental health and by promoting bullying of American Indian students. It goes on to say it teaches students inaccurate information about American Indian culture and teaches them that it is acceptable to participate in culturally abusive and prejudicial behaviors.