Letters: Maybe there’s a better mascot?

Re “School’s mascot sparks criticism,” Nov. 8

It’s difficult to believe that this is the first time in Coachella Valley Unified School District Supt. Darryl Adams’ 25-year career that he has heard criticism of Coachella Valley High School’s mascot. The mascot, the “Arab,” is portrayed with grotesquely exaggerated features including an overly large nose and what could be interpreted as a sinister grin with clenched teeth.

An appropriate solution is apparent. Ohio State University has Brutus Buckeye, and Stanford has “the tree.” Since the Arab was adopted to recognize the date industry’s importance in the area, why not follow the lead of Ohio State and Stanford and go right to the source with Dana Date — gender neutral, sweet and tasty.

As an ancillary benefit, dates are unlikely to complain.

James A. Himes

Hacienda Heights

Lately I’ve been hearing a lot about the politically incorrect names of two sports teams. Small changes might allow both teams to retain their team names without using offensive caricature mascots.

May I suggest that Coachella Valley High School could remain the “Arab” by changing its mascot to a horse, while the Washington NFL team could comfortably call itself the “Redskins” if its mascot became a potato.

Janet Cornwell

Manhattan Beach

ALSO:

Letters: Tesla’s growing pains

Letters: Unequal justice in Texas

Letters: The middle class loses. Again.