Otto. The Orange mascot who seems to connect with everyone and every aspect of the University wasn’t always the face of Syracuse Athletics. The Saltine Warrior came before the genderless mascot. The clothing and music associated with the Saltine Warrior was not representative of the native community and was offensive. Through the school’s actions and choices to earn the trust of indigenous people the school moved on from the Saltine Warrior in 1986 and officially onto Otto in the 90’s. The silent, rather immobile mascot is accepted for who they are and found ways to connect with all aspects of the university through their more creative communication.
“If all the mascots were to line up. You’re standing dogs, and horses, and sheep, and goats and fictional characters next to me. And I don’t feel honor. And I don’t feel privileged by sharing that space.” – Neal Powless, Syracuse University Ombuds
