CINCINNATI, OH — The National Underground Railroad Freedom Center, in partnership with Xavier University, announced today the panelists participating in the opening program for Mascots, the first of two special exhibitions opening at the museum this fall. The panelists include Dusty Baker, former manager of the Cincinnati Reds; Cheyenne Elder Dennis Limberhand; Alex Tortes of the Torres Martinez Desert Cahuilla Indian Tribe; and Dr. Rose M. Wetterau of Xavier University, licensed clinical psychologist. The opening program is scheduled for Saturday, November 7 at 1:00 p.m. in the Everyday Freedom Heroes Gallery and is included in museum admission.
“We welcome the community to join us in the ongoing dialogue that Mascots explores,” says Dr. Clarence G. Newsome, president of the National Underground Railroad Freedom Center. “The exhibit serves as a living conversation – it educates while asking the viewer to think about cultural appropriation and how it continues to devalue the rich culture and heritage of a diverse people.”
The opening program, moderated by Rabbi Abie Ingber of Xavier University, will discuss the history of using representations of American Indians in athletics and address how cultural appropriation perpetuates stereotypes. Panelists will provide personal, professional and psychological experiences and perspectives. The panel will also provide insight into the movements to retire the use of American Indian mascots across the country.
“Questioning the appropriateness of stereotypical sports mascots, helps bring awareness to Native Americans and other important issues that they face in the 21st century,” says Gregory E. Rust, director for photography at Xavier University. “As a Jesuit institution, Xavier’s heritage calls on us to serve others through the promotion of learning and social justice.”
Mascots opens to the public on Saturday, November 7 at the National Underground Railroad Freedom Center. The opening program, scheduled on the same day at 1:00 p.m., is included in museum admission. Mascots is curated by the National Underground Railroad Freedom Center in partnership with Xavier University. To learn more about Mascots, visit freedomcenter.org/Mascots