The relationship between the Ute Indian Tribe and University of Utah will continue with a new 5 year deal signed. In a joint press release issued Tuesday it was announced that the pair’s memorandum of understanding allows the university’s sports team to continue its use of the name “Utes”, something that the university has used with the support of the tribe since 1972. “The Ute Indian Tribe is pleased to continue its partnership with the University of Utah,” shares Chairman of the Ute Indian Tribal Business Committee Luke Duncan. “This agreement renews our shared commitment to building genuine respect and understanding of our tribe’s history, as well as our goal to support our youth in pursuing their education.” Included in the agreement is the Ute Proud educational campaign which shares Ute Indian history and culture and educates sports fans on what is and isn’t appropriate behavior concerning Ute and other Native American populations. “We are honored to continue using the Ute name and we acknowledge the special responsibility our athletes and fans bear to the Ute Indian Tribe,” says Mark Harlan, University of Utah athletics director. “Ute history is Utah history. We look forward to carrying the name forward with understanding and respect toward our state’s namesake people.” To learn more about the Ute Proud campaign, visit www.uteproud.utah.edu.
