Local News

North Side Discusses Redskin Nickname

FORT WAYNE, Ind. (WOWO): Conversations continue to heat up over a school nickname. 

Fort Wayne Community Schools have released a statement saying they're opening a dialogue with students, parents, staff, alumni and the greater community regarding the 'Redskins' nickname for North Side High School.  With school set to start on August 11th, FCWS noted they're going to be looking for input in shaping future traditions.  


Superintendent Dr. Wendy Robinson said part of the plan will include education of Native American history and traditions. They also note that the issue has been brought up multiple times over the last decade to members of the FWCS Board of School Trustees.  They've suggested it was time to bring the conversation forward.

“The Board is not dictating how this process unfolds, but the use of this nickname is inconsistent with our core values,” Board President Mark GiaQuinta said. “This issue has gotten to the point that we couldn’t keep putting it in the parking lot to deal with at a future time.”

North Side opened in 1927, and the nickname Redskins was chosen as a source of pride for local Native American history. But they say the name is now perceived as a derogatory term.  

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