Courtesy: Notre Dame University
notre-dame-mascot
NEW YORK (77WABC) – The Fighting Irish are fighting mad over its mascot being deemed “offensive.”
According to a recent survey, conducted by Quality Logo Products, the school’s Fighting Irish leprechaun is the fourth-most offensive mascot in college football.
The survey revealed that the top three most offensive mascots were all ones that were disrespectful towards Native Americans: Florida’s Osceola and Renegades, San Diego State’s Aztec Warrior, and Hawaii’s Vili the Warrior.
In a statement to the Indianapolis Star, the school defended the Fighting Irish leprechaun — while also taking a shot at an NFL franchise.
Here’s what Notre Dame said:
“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. 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.”
In their defense, Notre Dame also noted that Irish culture has been a huge part of the school’s fabric since it was founded. Notre Dame’s mascot was adopted by a former school president — who himself was Irish, the school said.
“Our symbols stand as celebratory representations of a genuine Irish heritage at Notre Dame, a heritage that we regard with respect, loyalty, and affection.”
