Just wanted to drop in my .02 on this issue and correct some info that's been posted on here. My name is Emily Osceola-Branch, FSU Alumni Class of 2003 & Seminole Tribal Member. The actions of the NCAA a few days ago disgust me. With so many other issues troubling college athletics the decision to outright ban the use of Native American imagery/mascots is ridiculous and misguided. I won't lie and say that I've never been embarassed or angered at the way my tribe has been depicted, mostly this stems from fellow fans at games who dress up in dime store "Injun" outfits and fake wigs, but I have always been proud of attending FSU and the way the University has handled it's relationship with the Seminole Tribe. I consider my graduation from FSU to be my greatest accomplishment. I was in attendance when the Seminole Tribal Council passed the resolution that supported FSU using my tribe as their symbol/mascot. I spent the day driving 4 hours to the middle of nowhere to attend the ceremony because I understood it's importance and wished to show my alma mater my support in any way I could. I have so many other things I want to say and share with everyone but right now my mind is busy with other issues I can't seem to put into words what else I want to say. I hope to get some kind of response from you all, I'm a regular lurker on this board and I've always been entertained by the discussions here so if anyone has a question feel free to ask, hopefully I'll be able to respond. Thanks for your time.
PS- The were some items posted on here that I wanted to correct so just bear with me. -James Billie is not the Chief, never was. That was just a cutesy little title he adopted. We might have had Chiefs in the past but our current leadership goes under the title Chairman, he's an elected official on our Tribal Council. The current chairman is Mitchell Cypress. -On an older post I stated that FSU does not offer scholarships to Seminole Tribal members. Another poster on a different board pointed out the "Seminole Scholars" program that TK created. I didn't even know it existed so I was wrong about that but it was not a program I benefited from. -Everyone should taken great joy in any comment on the issue from Mr. Max Osceola Jr. That man is one of the biggest UM fans I have ever met and he takes great enjoyment from our losing streak so when he has to say something nice about FSU believe me it pains him.
Posted on 8/7 11:50 AM | IP: Logged
Thank you Emily for sharing your feelings.
Posted on 8/9 10:21 PM | IP: Logged
Excellent post. Not so much because it supports FSU and the current situation, but because it comes from a true Seminole. If we listen to the NCAA and some of the other native americans's comments, we'd think that very few native americans are ok with such uses. Those of us that are not of that heritage can't possibly know how it feels or if its offensive so for someone to enlighten us like that is very helpful.
I also suggest you send this to the NCAA.
Thank you
Posted on 8/9 3:21 PM | IP: Logged
Thanks for sharing with us. Great post.
Posted on 8/9 7:08 PM | IP: Logged
Bumping this back to the top! I would like to nominate this thread for a spot in the Tomahawk Forum.
This post was edited on 8/9 8:09 PM by nolepaul23
Posted on 8/9 8:08 PM | IP: Logged
Emily, If the Tribe would be willing to sell the authentic Seminole shirts, jackets, and caps at or near Doak Campbell on game days this fall, i would bet that they would sell out of merchandise. Seminole Boosters authorizes sales at the athletic venues, but i could think of nothing better than to have our fans wearing real Seminole gear>
Posted on 8/9 9:50 PM | IP: Logged
Sam,
I agree..that would be awesome to see..I would buy the gear!
Posted on 8/9 9:53 PM | IP: Logged
Emily, Great post! Thank you so much for representing FSU and Florida State's Seminoles. Best of luck! Go Seminoles!
Posted on 8/9 1:30 PM | IP: Logged
Thank you, Emily, for being a wonderful representative of the Seminole Tribe of Florida and Florida State University. I'm proud to have you as a fellow alumni!
Posted on 8/9 9:07 AM | IP: Logged
Thank you Ms. Osceola-Branch! Your support and that of other "Seminoles-by-birth" means a great deal to those of us who are "Seminoles-by-choice."
It strikes me as condescending and patronizing for a group of mostly-Caucasian-old-men to presume to know what you and other members of the Tribe *should* find "hostile and abusive!"
I wish you would forward your remarks to President Wetherell and the NCAA (which stands for "Normally Clueless About Athletics" or "National Conspiracy Against Athletes").
As for Max Osceola, Jr., while he may be a UM fan, he has been an great supporter of FSU as well. Every year since '99 he has paid $5000 for the privilege of playing golf with Coach Bowden in the Seminole Club of Broward County's Bobby Bowden Golf Tournament. He and the Tribe have also given big gifts to FSU’s new golf facility and the Professional Golf Management Program.
Thanks again for your post.
David Thomas Wheeler; FSU, BS, 1989; Former Student Athletic Trainer
Posted on 8/8 4:55 PM | IP: Logged
Emily:
Thanks for the input. And congrats on graduating from FSU.
I played golf with Max a few years ago and he had a big FSU Seminole golf back. It was garnet and gold and had the "Head" logo on it. I asked him if he was a fan and he said, "nope, I'm a Cane fan."
He said that he just liked the bag because he was a Seminole. I asked if he or any other members of the tribe disliked FSU's use of the name and his quote was ..... "Nope. We like it. As long as they keep winning."
Hope that we always keep up our end of the relationship. :-)
Posted on 8/8 1:07 PM | IP: Logged
Emily,
Thanks alot for this post as it was one of the most insightful post I have ever read. I also graduated in 03' and remember hearing about your graduation. What was your major? I didn't get to involved with school news back then as I was a fulltime student and working fulltime as well while trying to get my party on fulltime.
My question to you is, what is your roll as an active member of the Seminoles? Do they have expectations of you or do you take it upon yourself for your personal reasons?
I would also like to know what other members of the tribe think about this?
Once again thanks.
Posted on 8/8 1:45 PM | IP: Logged
Thought I would put this thread back at the top.
Posted on 8/8 4:33 PM | IP: Logged
Thank you Emily....your post is awesome!
Posted on 8/8 5:03 PM | IP: Logged
Go Emily and Go Noles!
Posted on 8/8 8:25 PM | IP: Logged
To everyone that has responded since my last post all I can say is one big thank you. I had hoped to get some kind of response from the people on this board but I can honestly say that I'm overwhelmed by the amount of positive feedback and thanks I've received from all of you. Things have been crazy at work recently so as soon as I get a chance I'm going to get in contact with my relatives as well as President Wetherell's office, you all have my word on that. I just wanted to take the time to respond to some of the questions that have been asked since my last post, here goes:
GATORGIGGER: The people from the tribe that I've been able to talk to about the situation, people I work with and some family members, are concerned and upset at what's going on. I've also heard comments from others that they're not surprised that this happened since "white people have been messing things up for years". That came from one of my uncles and had my mom and I in stitches. I wouldn't even attempt to speak for the entire tribe, I'm only speaking for myself at this point but I'm still trying to get in contact with other people within the tribe to see what they think.
LEGAL: Your post brought a smile to my face. The gentlemen you mentioned, Guy Osceola and Harry Billie, are my uncles and to see them mentioned and remembered by someone outside my family is amazing.
70Renegade: That's definitely a question I'll try and bring up.
durtynole: Ha, my graduation aka "the media event", as I like to call it. The whole time at FSU nobody asked me for anything but a friend of mine in the Registrar's Office lets it slip to someone it TK's office that I'm graduating and suddenly I'm doing interviews, the pledge at graduation, etc. It was insane but really amazing. My major was ISS-Geography and I now work in a casino so I guess that's gone to great use.
To answer your question: I don't really have a defined role within the Seminole community other than being a tribal member and employee of the tribe. On a few occassions the Seminole Education Department or President Wetherell's office has asked me to attend an event, such as the Tribal Council meeting where they passed the resolution or when the Unconquered Statue was unveiled, and I went only because I wanted to. I didn't feel any obligation to attend but felt it was the best way for me to support my school as well as my tribe and the relationship they have.
Posted on 8/8 8:57 PM | IP: Logged
Emily,
Great posts!! Its just a shame that the NCAA didnt choose to speak with people like you or anyone associated with the Florida group before making their decision...I am astounded that equal weight for the positive association we have with the Florida tribe wasnt factored into any decision, they chose to only listen to the dissenting views of the Oklahoma tribe, and this by the NCAA's OWN admission!!
Best of luck to you in the future, dont be a stranger on the boards!!!
Posted on 8/9 12:13 AM | IP: Logged
Originally posted by jaxraider: Emily,
Great posts!! Its just a shame that the NCAA didnt choose to speak with people like you or anyone associated with the Florida group before making their decision...I am astounded that equal weight for the positive association we have with the Florida tribe wasnt factored into any decision, they chose to only listen to the dissenting views of the Oklahoma tribe, and this by the NCAA's OWN admission!!
Best of luck to you in the future, dont be a stranger on the boards!!!
Exactly Shame on the NCAA committee!!
Posted on 8/13 6:27 AM | IP: Logged
Emily, I did not think it was possible to be any more proud of being a Seminole but I am after reading your messages. I think we might end up thanking the ncaa when it's all said and done as I firmly believe it will make us all more proud of our school. I don't know if the younger NOLES can feel it as much as an older NOLE, but your messages brought some tears to my eyes. I've been proud to be a NOLE since I started at FSU back in 1966, but never more proud than I am today.
Posted on 8/11 3:25 PM | IP: Logged
Just wanted to pop this back to the top to see if we can get Emily's continued feedback on some of our updates since her last posting.
Posted on 8/12 8:37 AM | IP: Logged
bttt
Posted on 8/12 7:06 PM | IP: Logged
Easily one of the top threads in the history of Warchant! I hope you realize, Emily, how much we all enjoy your feedback -- keep it coming!
I would also like to echo the above comments about authentic Seminole attire/merchandise -- it would sell like hotcakes and create a win-win situation for all involved.
I'm curious about two things if you have time to answer them:
1. Do you think that "scalp 'em" being a part of the fight song offends Seminoles? Just curious to get an answer from a reliable source...
2. What do you and your tribe think of the Seminole head logo? I only ask this because I just read on the North Dakota site that they had actual Sioux design their logo and ours has been around a long time (and is supposedly a profile of Dr. Tommy Wright whose class most of us took at some point).
Thanks again!
Posted on 8/12 7:32 PM | IP: Logged
Am i the only one who feels this thread should be pinned to the top, at least for a while. If so, I guess I will just let it die.
Posted on 8/12 11:52 PM | IP: Logged
bttt
Posted on 8/13 2:35 AM | IP: Logged
Thanks Emily. It means so much more coming from your perspective.
Posted on 8/10 7:40 AM | IP: Logged
Emily,
I hope to meet you some day. I have known Carla, who you currently work with in Tampa, for many years. In fact, I have known her and her mother Louise Gopher, since before Carla attended FSU. We in Orlando are fortunate to have members of the Tribe from Brighton Reservation join us for over 10 years now at our annual Bobby Bowden banquet event. Carla joined us again this year. Her mother is the Director of Eduction for the Seminole Tribe of Florida. She was on our program, along with several Brighton children. They shared with us how one day a week the children are in classes to learn their native Creek lanquage and customs. The children said the alphabet and their names in Creek, and then said the blessing for our meal in Creek. It was a mutally enjoyable event for all in attendance. There are also Seminole ladies selling their beautiful crafts, so we have the opportunity to buy all types of patchwork items others in this thread have said they would like to purchase. There is a company out of the Tampa area that sells these items via a catalog and website. Perhaps you could provide that information for those that would like to order some items. I can't seem to find it.
We deeply appreciate your imput.
Posted on 8/10 11:55 AM | IP: Logged
Emily, I am from Tallahasee and have lived here my entire life. I was raised on Seminole football and have always had a love for FSU starting back when I was 6 years old. My dream as a child was to oneday attend FSU and become a "Seminole." Well, I made a lot of mistakes and experienced a lot of failure at the hands of my own decision-making. But, I never quit and got back up each time I fell down. I just recently completed T.C.C and finally at 34 I regeistered as a junior at FSU on 8/8/05. There were times during the orientation I became teary eyed, because I knew I had finally made it.
After reading your post and the comments of T.K I realize my life-story is somewhat similar to the history of the Native Seminoles of Florida.
I guess my point is our name and our mascott, for I am sure many of us, have from this situation been reminded that they truly symbolize a spirit of courage and conviction to fight for what you believe in no matter how much adversity you experience.
And like you it disgusts me that ignorance threatens to take it away.
The Spirit of the Florida Seminole Tribe is truly a inspiration!
Posted on 8/10 4:05 PM | IP: Logged
Emily,
It was nice to read your post. My brother-in-law is the Operations Mgr at the Museum on Big Cypress. His two brothers also work on the Reservation. One of them would have been at FSU while you were there. He was in the Marching Chiefs. I guess the best thing I can say about the Seminoles is what a great guy my brother-in-law is.
GO NOLES!
Posted on 8/10 5:40 PM | IP: Logged
Thank you for your post Emily!
It would seem that the NCAA did not talk very much with the Oklahoma Seminole Tribe!......The vote was 18-2!...Now there's due dilligence!
Posted on 8/11 1:12 PM | IP: Logged
How many people are on the Florida Tribe's Council? Add those with the 18 in favor of us in Oklahoma..and that is what I would call a landslide victory for us!
Posted on 8/11 2:19 PM | IP: Logged
May God continue to bless you and your proud people. My two boys have learned a great deal about Native American's and the Seminoles of Florida because of our family support of the Floirda State Seminoles.
They have a deep respect for all Native American people and resent our own history of gross mistreatment of Native Americans. My boy are 11 and 13 and have a level of repect for Native Americans that I believe would not exist to this degree were it not for the positive exposure of the Seminoles at FSU events. The NCAA's action are anoyther example, in my humble opinion, of the white man's government telling Native Americans what is best for them. This is beyond pathetic and must not stand.
Again, thank you and God bless.
This post was edited on 8/9 10:33 PM by guynole
Posted on 8/9 10:29 PM | IP: Logged
Emily, thanks for sharing.
Posted on 8/9 11:37 AM | IP: Logged
One of the best threads I've read in quite some time. Thanks Emily!!!
Posted on 8/9 11:52 AM | IP: Logged
tcnoles, emily.... I searched for years for authenic Seminole head dress (caps, hats, etc.). I forgot what you call them, but the only thing I could find did not have a bill or brim. Otherwise I would have bought some.
Posted on 8/9 1:16 PM | IP: Logged
emily, this is off topic but I have two questions. 1. What is the correct pronunciaton (overlook spelling):
CHEE kee or chee KEE
2. The Seminoles used the sap from the root of a tree or a plant to ward off mosquitoes, what kind of a tree or plant was it?
Thank you for your time.
Posted on 8/9 1:18 PM | IP: Logged
Not much else to say after that. Thanks so much for an enlightning post.
Posted on 8/9 10:56 AM | IP: Logged
BTTT
Posted on 8/9 11:18 AM | IP: Logged
Emily, Thank you for the post. It is definately good insite to have your unique perspective on this issue, and to clear up some common misconceptions that other school fans and even non-Seminole Seminoles have. Most of your issues have been touched on, and I just wanted to make one recomendation. You mentioned that one area of fan expresion you did not appreciate was the "chessy outfits" that some of the fans sport to the game. I was wondering the Seminole perspective of having vests and other gear actually made and marketed by the Seminole Tribe, sold at the games, through some outlet related to the school, or even on the Seminole tribe website. I think this would show some additional solidarity between the tribe and the school, and would also have our fan base appear more appropriate and respectful of our icon.
Posted on 8/9 9:42 AM | IP: Logged
bttt
Posted on 8/9 10:42 AM | IP: Logged
Emily, I enjoyed meeting you at the Unconquered dedication ( I sat at your table in the Ballroom ). Anyway, your thoughts and offers of help are most meaningful. Hopefully someone from the President's office has already been in touch with you earlier today. I love your aunt's observation that "white people are always messing things up" ! The NCAA has acted in a way that others have called a "Plantation Mentality".....believing that they know best and must "look out" for others. Did you notice that the NCAA VP admitted that they had talked to Oklahoma Seminoles, but never contacted Seminoles from Florida? Now that's really showing respect for Native Americans!
Posted on 8/9 12:34 AM | IP: Logged
Great post. Thanks for your insight.
The problem with this whole situation is that the NCAA does not take viewpoints like this into consideration. If one person feels offended, the NCAA thinks it's discriminatory.
I hate the NCAA.
Posted on 8/9 10:07 PM | IP: Logged
The NCAA is full of **** (use your favorite word for this situation)...
Posted on 8/9 10:13 PM | IP: Logged
Emily,
Cool another Geography Major here!! I graduated from the program in April of 2001. When I left, they were renovating the Bellamy Building..what was the post remodeled version of that place like? Hey its great seeing this thread on this forum! I learned alot about the Seminole tribe during my tenure at FSU, and its history is very interesting.
Posted on 8/8 11:30 PM | IP: Logged
Awesome, thanks alot for your insight!! Best of luck to you and the whole Seminole Nation!!!
Posted on 8/8 11:20 PM | IP: Logged
Emily, it's difficult to express to you how gratified I was to read your post. As a 7th generation Floridian I echo Doc1936's sentiments regarding respect for the Seminole Tribe. Living in Fort Myers I have been close to the Seminoles, both geographically and sentimentally my whole life. I remember a night in Naples when, as an 8th grade basketball player I played against two of the best high school athletes ever to grace Southwest Florida, Guy Osceola and Harry Billie of Everglades City. Harry Billie attended Florida State on an athletic scholarship a few years later. I know everyone involved with this board appreciates you and values you as one of us and I hope that you feel the same way.
Posted on 8/8 9:38 AM | IP: Logged
Great stuff. Everyone please note the comment about the dime store costumes. I have always had a problem with people wearing that stuff. If you are going to wear the garb, go out and purchase something authentic at least.
Posted on 8/8 9:53 AM | IP: Logged
In spite of the general definition----I NEVER think of the Seminole's as a mascot----the name is a proud SYMBOL!
A looooooooog time Seminole---a '58 grad.
Posted on 8/8 11:51 AM | IP: Logged
Awesome...flat out awesome! This is a great post and the NCAA needs to hear it straight from the source. You are a true Seminole, both in heritage and affiliation with our great University! Keep on spreading the word, and I'd love to know if you hear anything from TK.
Posted on 8/8 12:05 PM | IP: Logged
This has to be one of the best post I've had the pleasure of reading on this board. It rang out loud & clear a true Seminole's (native & University wise) feelings. You could almost hear her heart beat as you read through the lines she had written. Way to go Girl!! Glad your on our side & more importantly--on our team.
Posted on 8/13 7:04 AM | IP: Logged
Originally posted by Warchant Broker: This has to be one of the best post I've had the pleasure of reading on this board. It rang out loud & clear a true Seminole's (native & University wise) feelings. You could almost hear her heart beat as you read through the lines she had written. Way to go Girl!! Glad your on our side & more importantly--on our team.
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