January 2009.- Organizations throughout Santa Barbara County and beyond, are being called upon to be listed as part of the “Coalition for Character Counts Mascot Out,”
for the removal of racially offensive and culturally insensitive imagery or materials within our school systems and city buildings.

Last year, a 15 year old Chumash youth named Eli Cordero challenged Carpinteria High School’s “Warrior” mascot, stating that the use of a Native American Mascot and imagery is offensive, culturally insensitive and historically inappropriate. The issue was brought before the district school board, which then voted to discontinue the use of racist imagery. Since the board's decision, opponents of the ruling have threatened and attempted to intimidate those involved in the effort, including Eli Cordero.

The Coalition for Character Counts Mascot Out, demands a stop to this civil and human right violations. The Coalition is a united front, standing firm against, ignorance, racial stereotyping, historical inaccuracies, intimidation, and threats of violence of any kind by using non-violent, positive, and culturally relative information, tools and resources. The Coalition will support educational workshops, presentations and demonstrations that embrace and celebrate diversity.

For details about how you can get involved, and participate contact the Coalition’s Community Relations Department:
Ashleigh Brown: maginess14@aol.com
Corine Fairbanks: corine68@yahoo.com