The use of mascots is a common practice in many industries, including sports teams, schools, and businesses. However, there has been an ongoing debate about the appropriateness of certain mascots, particularly those that are based on specific ethnic or cultural groups. The issue centers around the potential for these mascots to perpetuate harmful stereotypes and offend members of the represented group. One such controversial mascot is the use of Native American imagery and names for sports teams. Many argue that these mascots contribute to the marginalization and dehumanization of Native Americans, as they reduce a diverse and complex group of people to a caricature. The use of such mascots can reinforce harmful stereotypes and create a hostile environment for Native American individuals.
Carlisle Magic Plus 2-Piece Kayak Paddle
Orange blades only now - no more blue. The fiberglass shaft take-apart Carlisle Magic Plus (a.k.a. the "Simply Magic" or just plain "Magic") is still a fairly strong axe for the money, though a couple years back the blade thickness and stiffness decreased a bit. We really preferred the older ones. At this point they don't seem that much better than a Clear Blue Hawaii ("CBH") Makaha paddle for touring purposes, though the Magic shafts are rougher in texture so they have a better grip than the CBH's. The Magic shaft is also a bit stronger than the CBH shaft, though it's blades are not stronger. We won't be stocking anything but 230cm in the orange/red blade color for this particular paddle.
The 90"/230cm length seems ideal for most of our paddlers, and the blade design on the Magic lends itself equally well to both whitewater and touring. It weighs 2 pounds, 10 ounces. The glass filled plastic blades are quite similar in shape to the asymmetric spooned Cannon Wave blades in this section, and about 1 cm narrower. The RS Magics come in orange-red, and the cloud blue shown in the photo.
The fiberglass Magic shaft has a contoured grip for right hand control only, though the shaft itself is not actually ovaled like Cannons products. Lefties will need to form an oval grip as discussed in the introduction to the kayak paddle section. Magic paddles have an offset of 60 degrees when feathered. For $125 you get a medium strength, well designed unit.
Carlisle Magic Plus Kayak Paddle
Efficient and powerful blade design for touring. Fiberglass reinforced polypropylene blades in bright colors are lightweight and durable. The asymmetrical, slightly curved blade shape combined with a lightweight, flexible fiberglass shaft produces smooth yet powerful strokes.
- Glass-filled polypropylene blades are both lightweight and durable
- Asymmetrical, slightly curved blade shape produces smooth, efficient strokes
- Lightweight, yet strong, the wrapped fiberglass shaft has an ovalized grip
- Rubber drip rings help to keep hands and legs dry while paddling
- No-fail push-button take down allow blades to be feathered at 60-degrees or set inline, for right or left-handed control
- Activity: Touring, Recreation
- Shaft Color: Black
- Shaft Material: Wrapped Fiberglass
- Blade Material: Fiberglass Reinforced Polypropylene
- Shaft Shape: Straight
- Shaft Size: Standard
- Blade Shape: Asymmetrical
- Blade Size: 18 in x 7.25 in | 45.72 cm x 18.41 cm
- Hand Control: Right or Left
- Feather Angle: 0 degrees and 60 degrees
- Ferrule: Push-button
- Weight: 2.56 lb | 1.162 kg
The use of such mascots can reinforce harmful stereotypes and create a hostile environment for Native American individuals. Opponents of changing these mascots argue that they are meant to honor and represent Native American culture, rather than offend or demean. They claim that the mascots serve as a symbol of strength and pride, and that changing them would erase an important part of American history.
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They also argue that many indigenous people do not find these mascots offensive and that it is only a small group of activists who are pushing for change. However, it is important to consider the perspectives of those who are directly affected by these mascots. Native American individuals and organizations have long been advocating for the retirement of these mascots, citing the cultural appropriation and misrepresentation that they perpetuate. The United Nations and several prominent civil rights organizations have also called for the elimination of such mascots, emphasizing that they violate principles of equality, dignity, and non-discrimination. In recent years, there has been some progress in addressing this issue. Several professional sports teams have changed their names and imagery to move away from Native American mascots, recognizing the harm they can cause. Additionally, some schools and colleges have also made changes to their mascots to better reflect inclusivity and respect for all cultures. In conclusion, the debate over the use of mascots based on specific ethnic or cultural groups continues to be a contentious one. While some argue that these mascots honor and represent a culture, others maintain that they perpetuate stereotypes and harm marginalized communities. It is essential to listen to the voices of those directly affected and to strive for inclusive and respectful representations of all cultures..
Reviews for "Vocabulary Mascots in Multilingual Education: Challenges and Opportunities"
1. Sarah - 2 stars
I found "Dispute the Vocabulary Mascot" to be a confusing and unnecessary addition to the academic curriculum. The animated mascot was annoying and seemed to detract from the actual content being taught. Additionally, the game-like format of the lessons made it difficult for me to focus and retain the information. I would much prefer a more traditional approach to learning vocabulary rather than relying on a mascot that felt out of place.
2. John - 1 star
I must say I was highly disappointed with "Dispute the Vocabulary Mascot". The mascot's voice was grating and obnoxious, making it difficult for me to concentrate on the lessons. The quizzes and challenges were repetitive, and I quickly grew bored of the games. It felt more like a cartoon aimed at children rather than an educational tool for adults. I would not recommend this program to anyone serious about improving their vocabulary skills.
3. Emily - 2 stars
While I appreciate the effort to make vocabulary learning more engaging, I found "Dispute the Vocabulary Mascot" to be more of a distraction than a helpful tool. The mascot's constant interruptions and attempts at humor were irritating, and I often found myself wishing for a more straightforward approach to learning. The content itself was decent, but it was overshadowed by the over-the-top mascot. I would suggest a toned-down version of the program for those who prefer a more serious and focused learning experience.
4. Mark - 1 star
I regret purchasing "Dispute the Vocabulary Mascot" as it did not live up to my expectations. The mascot was annoying and provided little added value to the lessons. The quizzes felt repetitive and did not effectively challenge my vocabulary skills. Overall, I felt that this program was a waste of time and money, and I wouldn't recommend it to others who are looking for a more effective and engaging way to improve their vocabulary.