I want to express my support to save the “Chief.” He has been a landmark in Durango for over 50 years.
I recommend taking a vote from the Native American people who are purportedly offended by his presence.
There are more than 100,000 members of the numerous tribal reservations in the Four Corners and they should have the most respected opinion regarding this decision.
If the Native American communities are offended by this, maybe the face could be repainted with the face of one our many worthy Native American leaders from this area such as Chief Ouray or Chief Nighthorse Campbell (the first Native American in the Senate).
I moved to Durango in 1973, and if my memory serves me correctly, the Chief Diner was the only restaurant that was open 24 hours a day.
I miss his arm waving at passersby.
The “Chief” also had a bit part in a movie I just saw recently called “Nurse Betty,” filmed in 2000, starring Renée Zellweger, Morgan Freeman and Chris Rock.
I also believe that with several generations of the Clark family working with and improving the lives of generations of Native Americans in the Four Corners, they would have expressed their objection to this sign years ago.
Let him stand in peace to greet all who pass by.
Butch KellerDurango
