SKOWHEGAN, Maine — A Maine business owned by a school board member is under fire after producing and selling apparel featuring a prohibited Native American-themed mascot.
Skowhegan-based School Administrative District 54 voted earlier this year to retire the "Indian" nickname and mascot for its schools. In addition, a new state law prohibits the use of Native American imagery as mascots or nicknames.
On Monday, the Maine Fire Equipment Co., Inc. posted images of apparel featuring "Indian Outlaw" logos in celebration of the high school football team's home opener.
Todd Smith, owner and board member, voted against retiring the "Indians" nickname. He said he's meeting the demand of the market, but admits the demand is decreasing.
Skowhegan hasn't selected a new logo or nickname.
Skowhegan mascot-related stories on NEWSCENTERmaine.com:
- Skowhegan students will return to school without a new mascot
- Indian mascot painted over at Skowhegan Area High School
- Maine governor signs bill to ban Native American mascots
- Maine Senate passes bill to ban Native American mascots
- Lawmakers vote to end Native American mascot use in Maine
- Bill to ban Native American mascots in Maine moves ahead
- Proposed bill would ban Native American mascots
- Skowhegan considers how to approach new school mascot
- Fate of Skowhegan's 'Indian' nickname remains in limbo