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SKOWHEGAN, Maine (AP) — Somerset County residents turned out to voice their opinions on the issue of whether a local high school should change its mascot.
Skowhegan Area High School currently uses the nickname "Indians" for its sports teams, along with Native American imagery. Skowhegan is one of the last remaining schools in Maine that still uses an American Indian-themed nickname.
Some say the moniker is offensive and racist. But others say it reflects the town's history and tradition.
Tribal leaders went before the education policy program committee last week to protest the use of the name. Monday's meeting prohibited Native American tribes from speaking.
School Board President Liz Anderson says there's no scheduled vote on the school's nickname at this time. The issue will be discussed at the school board's next meeting Thursday.
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