Otmj Thursday, July 16, 2015
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rebel review Vestavia Mascot Is Center of Controversy at School Board Session
Journal file photo by Lee Walls Jr.
More than 175 Vestavia Hills residents, parents, students and alumni of the city’s high school attended a board of education work session July 8 to voice their opinions on whether the high school should dump the Rebel mascot. Those who favor ditching the mascot say it’s racially insensitive and reflects negatively on Vestavia Hills. “All the excellent things we do should not be overshadowed by symbolism,” said Kira Fonteneau, a Vestavia Hills resident and parent. “Changing the mascot makes us look like the wonderful community that we are.” Others say the mascot is a source of school pride and community spirit that has outlasted past attachments to racial injustice. “What some believe to be a symbol of oppression, hatred and racism has been transformed by the students of Vestavia Hills into a symbol of academic merit, unwavering school spirit, success in sports, philanthropy and togetherness,” said Palmer Mordecai, a recent Vestavia Hills High School graduate. Those who spoke in favor of the Rebel mascot included two black students at the high school, the school’s first black Rebel Man, former high school principal Cas McWaters and State Sen. Jabo Waggoner, R-Vestavia. Those who urged the board to change the mascot included a former student, a member of the city’s chamber of commerce and two professors at the University of Montevallo, who are also Vestavia Hills residents. Those who spoke for the Rebel mascot asked the superintendent and school board to let students at the high school vote whether to keep or change the mascot. Vestavia resident and former parks and recreation board member Steve Bendall said the high school student body is in a better position to judge the issue because it’s their See rebel, page 11
inside
City-centric Festival Sloss Furnaces event is tailored for Birmingham. about town Page 4
Tomato Relish Southern favorite is in the spotlight at first-ever event. food Page 24 A Tasteful Brew Andrew Pharo incorporates art into his Mountain Brook home. home Page 20
Journal photos by William C. Singleton III
By William C. Singleton III