‘Indian’ Vanishes From Group’s Name

Re “Group Loses ‘Indian’ in Name, Not Spirit,” Dec. 1: I was saddened to read about the end of the Indian Guides program [renamed Adventure Guides]. My dad and I were involved in the late ‘50s (and my daughter and I were in Indian Princesses 35 years later). The programs taught us to respect Native American people and traditions (things generally overlooked in public education). They also started our appreciation of nature and love of camping. When all is said and done, I think the people who will lose the most by this decision will be the Indians themselves.

Steve Behmerwohld

San Juan Capistrano

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I am grateful that the YMCA has removed Indian terms from its programs. I, for one, do not want my sons or daughters walking in a civic parade to be associated with casino gambling.

Patrick O’Brien

San Juan Capistrano