FARGO, N.D. (AP) — Some supporters of keeping the University of North Dakota’s Fighting Sioux nickname say their passion is not only about the name itself, but also about believing residents should be able to decide its fate.
Residents generated 17,000 signatures seeking to put the issue to a statewide vote. That resurrected the name — at least temporarily. The announcer at a women’s basketball game last week even shouted the familiar: “Here come your Fighting Sioux!”
But supporters know the victory may not be permanent. More legal and political fights loom, and sanctions could complicate the school’s membership in the Big Sky Conference.
Some petition signers contacted by The Associated Press say they resent being depicted as hostile to American Indians and being told what to do with the state’s flagship university.
