The “Chief,” while representing an example of the pinnacle of cultural appropriation, has a significant presence in Durango’s history.
Perhaps, rather than dismantling the sign, a kind of quid pro quo could be established by erecting an additional sign further characterizing Durango history. I’d suggest a giant Saltine Cracker.
Disclosure: I played the “Chief” sign in Snowdown’s “Fashion Dos and Don’ts” – I think it was in the “When The West Was Fun” theme-year. I modeled a caricature of the sign, not Native Americans, although I’ll stipulate that this is a rather fine distinction, one which nevertheless likely precludes me from ever running for public office, as there is most certainly video evidence. It was stupid, typical of my every Snowdown performance.
Maybe Jackson Clark would give me a part-time job if they ever tear down the sign.
Davitt M. ArmstrongOracle, Arizona
