University of North Dakota Under Fire After Students Wear ‘Siouxper Drunk’ Shirts

The University of North Dakota finds itself mired in controversy after a group of students posted pictures on social media wearing t-shirts with the slogan 'Siouxper Drunk' during Springfest, the school's annual spring party that celebrates the end of the school year.

The shirts shows the face of a Native American chief (reminiscent to UND's former logo) with a beer bong next to his mouth and beer mugs underneath, with 'Siouxper Drunk' written above. The images have quickly spread around the internet, causing outrage among many. One website argues that "the ‘drunken Indian’ caricature is one of the worst stereotypes about Native people that there is."

Ardent opposers are taking to Twitter and UND's Facebook page to voice their displeasure.

Ruth Hopkins, writer for Last Real Indians, argues this:

Native mascots personify the widespread systemic racism against Native people that still prevails in the subconscious of western society. The Fighting Sioux-esque ‘Siouxper Drunk’ tees worn at UND’s Springfest by UND students are proof positive that Native mascots are harmful and degrading to Native people, and that retiring all race-based mascots is not only appropriate, but necessary.

The university's now-retired nickname has long been a divisive issue. After years of debate, the "Fighting Sioux" nickname, along with the accompanying logo, were retired at the beginning of 2012.

At the time of this writing, the school has yet to issue a statement. We will continue to update this story as information becomes available.

[SOURCE: Last Real Indians]