WHEREAS, The Mission of the
American Counseling Association calls for using the profession and
practice of counseling to promote respect for human dignity and
diversity; and
WHEREAS, Many Native American students and
allies have stated that use of NativeAmerican Imagery as mascots and
sports symbols creates a hostile environment for their development and
dignity; and
WHEREAS, Many organizations, including the
U. S. Commission on Civil Rights, the National Association for the
Advancement of Colored People, the National Education Association, and
the National Organization for Women, have called on educational
institutions to cease the use of such imagery; and
WHEREAS, Many ACA members work in
educational institutions and therefore have opportunities to have an
impact on this issue;
THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, That the
American Counseling Association disseminate educational materials
highlighting the negative consequences of the use of stereotypical
Native American images; and
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, That the American
Counseling Association support and collaborate with organizations
opposing this practice; and
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, That the American
Counseling Association encourage its members to work toward elimination
of stereotypical Native American images in institutions where they are
employed.
The American Counseling Association is the world's
largest association representing professional counselors. "The
mission of the American Counseling Association is to enhance the
quality of life in society by promoting the development of professional
counselors, advancing the counseling profession, and using the
profession and practice of counseling to promote respect for human
dignity and diversity."