The San Diego State University (SDSU) Senate passed a resolution to end the use of the Aztec Warrior mascot on Tuesday evening.
The two-part resolution was passed 52-15, with two abstentions, to retire all human representations of the school's current mascot and to establish a task force to explore issues relating to the Aztec moniker, SDSU said in a statement.
All symbols of the Aztec warrior would also be retired.
On Thursday, students and staff expressed mixed opinions about the possibility of a new mascot.
"I can see why Native Americans would be offended," said student Vicky Lau. "It's just appropriating their culture."
Robert Hernandez said he is a Native American and veteran of the Vietnam War.
"When I got back from Vietnam, I got tattoos representing San Diego State and the fact I'm Native American," said Hernandez. On one arm he has the spear of the Aztecs that is commonly shown in the SDSU logo. On the other arm is a shield.
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"As a Native American, I don't think it is offensive, not one bit," said Hernandez. "I consider myself a warrior. And our athletes are warriors too."
According to the Daily Aztec, a number of protesters from the Native American Student Alliance were outside of the meeting before it started.
"There can be no question that all viewpoints regarding SDSU’s Aztec identity have a right to be respectfully heard and carefully considered," the university's statement read. "This resolution provides an opportunity for dialogue to continue among all stakeholders in the SDSU community - including faculty, students, staff, and alumni."
The resolution will next go to SDSU President Sally Roush's desk for consideration. Roush can approve or reject it in its entirety or just certain parts.
