Though there are other school mascots and emblems in dispute, which many

schools and colleges are now facing, because of the "said" ties to the Old

South. Francis T. Nicholls State University's Colonel mascot named "Tillou" is

the very latest to be under siege by growing opposition.


This mascot is as historic to the college itself, as are all its other tradit-

ions, which identifies the school as being unique and sets it apart from other

institutions of higher learning.


So why do try to do away with this popular mascot? It's because of the 17% of

the student body at Nicholls, which is comprised solely of African Americans,

who feel that the Confederate-uniformed colonel image is offensive to them.

They see this historic mascot as being connected to the Old South and represents

a past they'd rather forget. Because it was a troubled period in American

history, where slavery and prejudice abounded, and this mascot they claim only

stirs up painful images of it.


But how can a school mascot do this? As it is something that poses no real

threat to anyone. The only real danger is in people's minds alone. For it is

here, and only here, that racial tensions and conflict are born and dwell.

Confederate images, statues, traditions, and so forth, are only inanimate

objects. They're only proud links to southern history, not bigotry, and this

must be fully realized and understood. We as American people, no matter the race

or creed, must be able to reflect on the mistakes of our past as a country. So

therefore not to commmit the same mistakes in the future. History cannot be

rewritten or erased to suit our own personal preferences. As history is a living

thing and mustn't be tampered with. No matter how bloody, tragic, or unjust it

was to our past ancestors. So we must change ourselves inwardly in order to view

and percieve things in the right light. These mascots, emblems, and what-have-

you weren't created to be lasting reminders of ill-treatment and inequality.

They were designed for the express purpose of preserving southern heritage and

pride for all.


So what will the fate of Nicholls mascot be? Will it remain "Southern" Colonel

in detail or be demoted to a generic status as requested? The fate of this

mascot awaits a campus government survey of the 7,262 students who are enrolled

there. Will the "heated" opposition continue or be diffused? No one yet knows

what the outcome will be. But here's to "Tillou," may he live long and prosper,

despite the arguements against him!!