Re “Clairemont High gets new mascot name, replacing Chieftains” (Feb. 26): Replacing “Chieftains” with “Captains” should not be necessary. Indian chiefs were brave warriors who fought to protect their peoples. They were venerated as their tribes’ leaders. Schools have recognized this through the years by adopting the name (and other similar names) as their mascots. This tradition should be viewed as a form of flattery. It is a shame that in recent history, this practice has been distorted as an insult or a sign of prejudice toward Indians rather than a sign of reverence and respect. It is time to rethink this concept and counter the pressures that result in misplaced efforts.
— Jane Barnes, Julian