Mascot black refers to the use of a black character or symbol as a mascot for a sports team or organization. This term is often used to describe the use of African American or black imagery in sports logos, team names, and branding. While some argue that using black mascots can be seen as a form of representation and celebration of black culture, others argue that it perpetuates harmful stereotypes and promotes racism. The debate surrounding the use of black mascots is complex and multifaceted. Proponents of black mascots argue that they can serve as positive role models for young black athletes and fans. They believe that these mascots can promote a sense of pride and empowerment within the black community.
Goshen College reveals new mascot: Dash, the Black Squirrel
Goshen College unveiled its new mascot, Dash, a black squirrel, during the Homecoming Weekend convocation on Friday. It was previously announced the new mascot would be a black squirrel, and the full embodiment and name was revealed on Friday.
As the college’s new number one fan, Dash will be regularly present at athletic and community events. The Maple Leafs will remain the moniker by which the college knows and promotes its athletic teams.
“We’re excited to have a physical mascot to generate enthusiasm at our athletic events and across campus,” said Erica Albertin, director of athletics. “We can’t think of a better lasting mascot than Dash. We know the personality of the squirrel represents our institution and athletics: energetic, friendly, enthusiastic, clever, quick and small but mighty.”
Dash will be making appearances at multiple Homecoming events throughout the weekend to meet students, alumni and family in town for Homecoming Weekend, including at First Fridays in Downtown Goshen from 6-7 p.m. on October 7.
Dash made his first public appearance in Downtown Goshen for First Fridays on Oct. 7.
Earlier this year it was announced the black squirrel was chosen after input from students, alumni and employees in a fall survey, with an overwhelming 75 percent in support for a squirrel as the mascot. Students, alumni and employees also gave their input on the name, with Dash also being the favorite among all three groups.
Fun facts about Dash include:
BIRTHPLACE: Goshen, Indiana
WEIGHT: More than your average squirrel
SHOE SIZE: 42
HABITAT: Roman Gingerich Recreation-Fitness Center
FRIENDS: The animals at Merry Lea Environmental Learning Center
FAVORITE FOOD: Nuts
FAVORITE ICE CREAM FLAVOR FROM THE CHIEF: Peanut butter
FAVORITE COLORS: Purple and white, of course
FAVORITE VACATION SPOT: In the Florida Keys at the J.N. Roth Marine Biology Station
FAVORITE HANGOUT SPOT: Maple Leafs athletic events
Notre Dame’s black leprechaun mascot responds to racist criticism
Samuel B. Jackson, only the second African American chosen to cheer for Notre Dame as one of its leprechaun mascots, issued a plea for unity after his mere presence on the sideline at the football opener was criticized.
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“You know what is sad?” tweeted Dave Portnoy, the founder of the sports and culture site Barstool Sports, while watching the Fighting Irish beat Louisville on Monday. “Internet outrage culture has made me afraid to say that I think the ND mascot should always be a midget looking ginger. So I’m just not gonna say it.”
Portnoy, who recently battled Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez (D-N.Y.), blasted his opinion into the social media ether along with a photo of Jackson in his costume and three white leprechaun mascots.
You know what is sad? Internet outrage culture has made me afraid to say that I think the ND mascot should always be a midget looking ginger. So I’m just not gonna say it. pic.twitter.com/Xr4MnjVdsB
— Dave Portnoy (@stoolpresidente) September 3, 2019
Jackson wasn’t having it. “Like it or not, this guy right here is still one of your Notre Dame leprechauns!” he tweeted, along with a wink and a shamrock. “How about we use this negative energy to bring us together this season? See y’all next game. #GoIrish”
Like it or not, this guy right here is still one of your Notre Dame leprechauns! How about we use this negative energy to bring us together this season? See y’all next game 😉☘️ #GoIrish pic.twitter.com/adYbTgUplU
— Jamuel Sackson (@samuelbjackson) September 4, 2019
Notre Dame has had leprechaun mascots since 1965, when they replaced Irish terrier dogs. Three students were chosen as mascots, with Lynnette Wukie the third African American and first female chosen in the school’s history. Wukie wasn’t on the field for the season opener. The third, Conal Fagan, is the first from Northern Ireland.
☘️ Samuel Jackson
➡️ (No relation to @SamuelLJackson)
☘️ Conal Fagan
➡️ From Northern Ireland
☘️ Lynnette Wukie
➡️ First female to portray @NDTheLeprechaun
Jackson, who said in April that he is “a walking pep rally,” met with Mike Brown, a 2001 graduate who was the first African American mascot, last year and discussed taking on the role.
Campus weather closure Jan. 10
Due to expected impacts from a storm predicted to bring high winds, downed trees, and widespread power outages, classes will be cancelled tomorrow, Jan. 10. This includes online classes. UMaine will be in storm day operation as of 5 a.m. Jan. 10, as defined in the university’s inclement weather policy. Only employees designated essential by Storm Day Staffing Plans are expected to report to work tomorrow. Normal operations are scheduled to resume at 5 a.m. Jan. 11.
New Balance Student Recreation Center and the Fogler Library will be closed.
The Bear’s Den will be open 8 a.m. to 6 p.m.
Cutler Health Center will be open normal hours.
Bananas T. Bear
They believe that these mascots can promote a sense of pride and empowerment within the black community. Additionally, they argue that black mascots can help raise awareness and visibility for issues affecting the black community. However, opponents argue that black mascots can reinforce harmful stereotypes, such as the "angry black man" or "cultural appropriation.
History
For the past century, the black bear has been the University of Maine mascot.
According to The History of the Maine Bear, compiled by UMaine’s Sigma Xi Chapter of Alpha Phi Omega (APO) service fraternity, a small black bear cub named Jeff, born on the northeast slope of Mount Katahdin, was presented to O.B. Fernandez, a former Old Town police chief and collector of wild animals, in 1914. Fernandez loaned the bear to the university, where Jeff was introduced at a football rally. As the tiny black bear entered the auditorium, the surprised crowd applauded enthusiastically. When Jeff stood on his head, the crowd went “bananas” — giving rise to the name of all future UMaine bear mascots.
From 1915–66, Jeff was succeeded by many live bear mascots. The last was Cindy Bananas. After live mascots were outlawed in the state, UMaine adopted a “human bear.” In 1969, APO took responsibility for providing a mascot as part of the service fraternity’s community effort.
" They argue that using black characters as mascots can reduce complex cultural identities to simplistic caricatures, leading to discrimination and prejudice. Additionally, they argue that using black mascots can perpetuate racial inequalities and marginalize black communities. The controversy surrounding black mascots is not limited to sports. It extends to other areas such as entertainment, advertising, and even political campaigns. Critics argue that these forms of representation can be dehumanizing and offensive, perpetuating harmful stereotypes and contributing to systemic racism. In recent years, there has been an increased awareness and debate surrounding the use of black mascots, leading to some organizations and teams reevaluating their branding and making changes. For example, the Washington Football Team, formerly known as the Washington Redskins, changed their controversial team name in 2020 following years of protests and criticism. In conclusion, the topic of black mascots is a complex and controversial one. While some argue that they can be a form of representation and empowerment, others argue that they perpetuate harmful stereotypes and promote racism. The debate surrounding black mascots highlights the importance of considering diverse perspectives and being mindful of the potential impact of representation in sports and other areas of society..
Reviews for "The Symbolism of Mascot Black in Contemporary Society"
1. Jane - Rating: 2/5
I was really disappointed with "Mascot Black". The story felt disjointed and lacked a clear plotline. The characters were underdeveloped and I found it difficult to connect with any of them. The writing style was also quite confusing and at times, it felt like I was reading a completely different book. Overall, I felt like the story had potential but it just didn't deliver.
2. Mike - Rating: 1/5
I couldn't even finish "Mascot Black". The dialogue was unrealistic and the characters were extremely cliché. The pacing was incredibly slow, and I found myself bored and uninterested in what was happening. The author tried to incorporate too many subplots, which only added to the confusion and lack of coherence. I was really hoping for a gripping thriller, but unfortunately, this book fell flat for me.
3. Sarah - Rating: 2/5
I have mixed feelings about "Mascot Black". While the concept was intriguing, the execution was lacking. The story dragged on unnecessarily and the pacing felt off. The characters were one-dimensional and I couldn't invest myself in their stories. Additionally, the ending was unsatisfying and left too many loose ends. Overall, I was left feeling underwhelmed and wishing for more depth and excitement in the book.