The growing debate over mascots, logos and team names used in sports has been an issue since the 1960s-70s. The question at hand is whether these symbols are a representation of pride or whether they can be classified as racist. There are many supporters on both sides of this debate. Many on one side argue that the symbols are clearly racist, while others on the opposite side say that the symbols are an honor to who they are depicting and are negatively linked to racism. There are also individuals who do not identify with either party, resulting in the belief that these symbols are a representation of the organization itself rather than creating a backstory or image associated with something other than the organization represented by an image. With many debates and issues regarding the topic occurring every year, the question remains: what should be done about the issue of racism in the sports industry? Many are of the opinion that these mascots, these logos, have a negative connotation for the representation of the organization. These people support their decision with the belief that the symbols are racist and offensive because of the way the media portrays the images, distorting them and making them cartoon-like to distort the image (Locklear). What Locklear is trying to say is that the changed belief provided by the media influences how the public views the alteration of a symbol as discriminatory or as a negative racial representation. However, the opposing side of the argument holds that the depiction of the symbol is harmless and the belief that race is linked to the sports industry is unreasonable. This crowd of believers is not only made up of white individuals, but also Native...... middle of paper...... organizations made up of individuals who gain the belief that mascot names, colors and/or logos can be defined as racist. The provocative side has the idea that the sports industry does not participate in racist activities and does not segregate members of the race. There are also communities that remain mutual throughout this discussion with the belief that the organizations did not attempt to please either side and chose the symbols, colors, mascots and team names that they believed would provide positive morale in the location where the industry was created. Ultimately, there is no real way to please every individual regarding the racism debate in the sports industry, therefore, the sports industry must rely on the loyal audience and hope that this issue does not lose active members in this audience or in the future. members from entering the public.