San Antonio College Removes Mascot That Represented ‘Oppressive Force’

San Antonio College has decided to remove its ‘Ranger’ mascot after campus groups campaigned for its removal for more than a year.

Dr. Robert Vela

Advocates for the removal of the mascot said it represented the Texas Rangers who have brutalized Mexican Americans, Native Americans and members of the Black community.

“For generations, the Rangers were an oppressive force that used violence against Mexicans, Mexican Americans, African Americans, and Native Americans. Much of this history is only now emerging causing a reexamination of the Rangers,” said a statement by the college.

The decision to be rid of the ‘Ranger’ mascot was made during a special session Tuesday of the College Council, a group consisting of college administrators, department directors, faculty chairs and program coordinators.

“This is a historic day!” said college president Dr. Robert Vela. “The debate is over and San Antonio College has gone on record as being inclusive, diverse, empowered, decisive, true to its values – and committed to doing the right thing. We’ve taken a great leap forward and now we can begin the process of fashioning a new mascot identity that reflects the very best qualities of our SAC community.”