One Group’s Insult Is Another Group’s Cherished School Mascot

I am a high school senior from Tacoma, Wash., and would like to comment on the mascot issue (“Wheaton’s New Mascot Comes From Above,” Oct. 10).

I personally think that the whole controversy is ludicrous; it’s a religious school, for goodness’ sake! If someone is that offended by the use of a crusader as a mascot, they do not have to attend Wheaton College.

If Wheaton is looking for a gender-neutral, politically correct mascot, why don’t they follow in the footsteps of UC Santa Cruz and adopt the banana slug? Or even better, an earthworm? The Evergreen State College in Olympia, Wash., uses the geoduck.

As for offensive school symbols, I have found several: the Bombers, Richland High School (Wash.); Cotton Pickers, Robstown High School (Texas); Midgets, Hurley High School (Wis.); Criminals, Yuma High School (Ariz.); Vikings and Warriors (both various). Other religious mascots include: Missionaries, Whitman College (Wash.); Nimrods, Watersmeet High School (Mich.).

CELIA SPENCE

Tacoma, Wash.