WASHINGTON, DC - In response to a controversial bill signed into law on Thursday, December 19th by Wisconsin Governor Scott Walker, making it easier for schools with Native American mascots to keep them and harder for people who want to change the nicknames to challenge them, National Congress of American Indians President Brian Cladoosby issued the following statement:

"I was deeply saddened to hear that Wisconsin Governor Walker signed a misguided bill that protects racist stereotypes reinforced by using Native American names and images as school mascots. Many communities, even some in Wisconsin, have recognized that these nicknames do not honor Native people and rejected these outdated notions. Wisconsin just took a big step backward in the journey toward a more inclusive and respectful society."