Add the Notre Dame Fighting Irish mascot to the list of those that are found to be offensive.
According to a survey via the New York Post that was published in the Indy Star, the Notre Dame mascot was listed as the 4th most offensive mascot in college football, according to the poll.
A representative from Notre Dame actually sent a note into the Indy Star defending its use of the mascot.
Article Continues Below“It is worth noting … that there is no comparison between Notre Dame’s nickname and mascot and the Indian and warrior names (and) mascots used by other institutions such as the NFL team formerly known as the Redskins,” the statement said.”
“None of these institutions were founded or named by Native Americans who sought to highlight their heritage by using names and symbols associated with their people.”
“Our symbols stand as celebratory representations of a genuine Irish heritage at Notre Dame, a heritage that we regard with respect, loyalty and affection.”
It is worth noting the three mascots ahead of Notre Dame were: Florida State's (Osceola and Renegade), San Diego State's Aztec Warrior and Hawaii's Vili the Warrior. All are considered culturally offensive to Native Americans. The Fighting Irish mascot, although 4th on the list, doesn't fall into that category.
For something to come of this in terms of change for the mascot would come as a huge shock. It's just intriguing to see which mascot falls into these categories.