Florida State can continue to use the nickname Seminoles in NCAA championships.
The NCAA has removed Florida State from its list of colleges subject to restrictions on the use of Native American names, mascots and imagery.
On August 5, Florida State was one of 18 schools the NCAA cited in its new policy on the prohibition of hostile and abusive racial/ethnic/national origin displays at any of its 88 championships.
However, the organization then allowed for an appeals process, which Florida State took up immediately. The school said its use of the Seminole nickname was not hostile, abusive or disrespectful and cited its "60-year history of honoring the Florida Seminoles" in a letter to the NCAA.
The NCAA has apparently agreed.
"The NCAA Executive Committee continues to believe the stereotyping of Native Americans is wrong," wrote NCAA senior vice-president for governance and membership Bernard Franklin in a statement Tuesday.
"However, in its review of the particular circumstances regarding Florida State, the staff review committee noted the unique relationship between the university and the Seminole Tribe of Florida as a significant factor. The NCAA recognizes the many different points of view on this matter, particularly within the Native American community. The decision of a namesake sovereign tribe, regarding when and how its name and imagery can be used, must be respected even when others may not agree.
"The NCAA position on the use of Native American mascots, names and imagery has not changed, and the NCAA remains committed to ensuring an atmosphere of respect and sensitivity for all who participate in and attend our championships. This decision applies to the unique relationship Florida State University has with the Seminole Tribe of Florida. Requests for reviews from other institutions will be handled on a case-by-case basis."
The other schools cited in the August 5 directive included Alcorn State University (Braves); Central Michigan University (Chippewas); Catawba College (Indians); Midwestern State University (Indians); University of Utah (Utes); Indiana University-Pennsylvania (Indians); Carthage College (Redmen); Bradley University (Braves); Arkansas State University (Indians); Chowan College (Braves); University of Illinois (Fighting Illini); University of Louisiana- Monroe (Indians); McMurry University (Indians); Mississippi College (Choctaws); Newberry College (Indians); University of North Dakota (Fighting Sioux) and Southeastern Oklahoma State University (Savages).
